What type of surgery is typically performed for an ectopic pregnancy?

In cases of ectopic pregnancy, the primary goal is to remove the implanted tissue to prevent complications such as rupture, which can be life-threatening. Laparoscopic surgery is often preferred due to its minimally invasive nature, but when a more direct approach is necessary or if there are significant complications (like excessive bleeding or a ruptured ectopic mass), exploratory laparotomy may be performed. This procedure involves making a larger incision in the abdomen to allow the surgeon to access the pelvic cavity directly.

While laparoscopic surgery is common in managing ectopic pregnancies, exploratory laparotomy is the choice when immediate and comprehensive access is necessary or in cases where laparoscopic methods are not feasible. Hysterectomy is not indicated for ectopic pregnancies since it involves the removal of the uterus and is not applicable when addressing the implantation of tissue outside the uterus. Colonoscopy is unrelated to ectopic pregnancies as it is a diagnostic procedure for the colon. Thus, exploratory laparotomy stands out as a critical option in the surgical management of ectopic pregnancies when more invasive intervention is warranted.