Ovarian cancer is one of the deadliest forms of cancer in women.

According to the American Cancer Society, it is estimated that in 2021, approximately 21,410 women will receive a new diagnosis of ovarian cancer, and about 13,770 deaths will occur from this disease. The likelihood of developing ovarian cancer increases with age, and other factors such as family history, obesity, and the use of fertility drugs may also increase the risk.

What is Trumpetectomy?

Trumpetectomy is a term that has been used in recent years to describe the removal of the ovaries in women who have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer.

The term was coined after Angelina Jolie, the actress, revealed in 2013 that she underwent prophylactic double mastectomy and later a bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (BSO) due to her high risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer. The latter procedure, which is also known as Trumpetectomy, involves the removal of both ovaries and fallopian tubes.

Can Trumpetectomy Lower the Risk of Ovarian Cancer?

The removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes reduces the levels of estrogen and progesterone, which are hormones that can stimulate the growth of certain types of ovarian cancer.

Therefore, the removal of these organs can lower the risk of developing ovarian cancer in women who have a high risk due to genetic factors such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations.

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) recommends that women who have a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation and have completed their childbearing consider undergoing prophylactic removal of their ovaries and fallopian tubes after the age of 35, or when their childbearing is complete.

Are there any risks associated with Trumpetectomy?

As with any surgery, there are risks associated with Trumpetectomy. These may include bleeding, infection, damage to nearby organs, and an adverse reaction to anesthesia.

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In addition, the removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes can lead to premature menopause in women who have not yet reached menopause. This can cause symptoms such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and mood swings.

Women who undergo Trumpetectomy may also be at an increased risk of certain health conditions, such as osteoporosis and heart disease, due to the reduction in estrogen levels.

Alternative Options for Lowering the Risk of Ovarian Cancer

Women who are not ready or interested in undergoing Trumpetectomy may consider other options for reducing their risk of ovarian cancer. These may include the use of oral contraceptive pills, which can lower the risk of ovarian cancer by up to 50%.

Women who have completed their childbearing may also consider removing their fallopian tubes only, a procedure known as Salpingectomy.

In addition, women who have a high risk of ovarian cancer may benefit from close surveillance. This may involve regular pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, and blood tests for markers such as CA-125.

The Bottom Line

While Trumpetectomy can lower the risk of ovarian cancer in women who have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, it is not a decision to be taken lightly.

Women considering this procedure should discuss their options with their healthcare provider and take into account their personal and family history, as well as their own values and preferences. For women who decide against Trumpetectomy, there are other options available for reducing the risk of ovarian cancer, including the use of oral contraceptive pills, Salpingectomy, and surveillance.