What is the surgical sterilization procedure in which the fallopian tubes are tied and ends cauterized, typically performed with a laparoscope?

• A. Tubal ligation
• B. Hysterectomy
• C. Vasectomy
• D. Oophorectomy

Answer: (A)

Blocking fertilization by closing off the fallopian tubes is the concept being tested. The described procedure ties the tubes and cauterizes their ends, which prevents eggs released by the ovaries from traveling to the uterus and meeting sperm. Doing this with a laparoscope uses small incisions and a camera to guide instruments, making the operation minimally invasive. This approach is tubal ligation and is considered a permanent contraception method for someone with female reproductive anatomy. It targets the exact pathway where fertilization would occur, while leaving the uterus and ovaries in place. By comparison, removing the uterus (hysterectomy) eliminates the uterus itself, not specifically the fertilization pathway; a vasectomy is male sterilization by severing the vas deferens; removing the ovaries (oophorectomy) removes the source of eggs but is not the same as sealing the fallopian tubes.