Introduction/Background*The discovery of the Fallopian tube epithelium as origin of high grade serous ovarian cancer has brought a new option for ovarian cancer prevention, the opportunistic salpingectomy (OS). The popularity of OS is increasing globally, however at present there is substantial practice variation. As a result, whether or not a woman is able to make her own decision on OS depends on the hospital or gynaecologist she visits. To lower practice variation, we developed and tested a patient decision aid (PtDA) for OS in women undergoing either pelvic gynaecological surgery with the intention to retain the ovaries or a sterilization.

Methodology We followed a systematic development process based on the International Patient Choice Aid Standard (IPDAS). Data were collected between June 2019 and June 2020, using both qualitative and quantitative methods. The development process took place in collaboration with patients and healthcare professionals, was overseen by a multidisciplinary steering group, and was divided in four phases; 1. Assessment of decisional needs using individual interviews and questionnaires; 2. Development of content and format based on decisional needs, current literature and guidelines; 3. Alpha-testing and first revision round; and 4. Alpha-testing and second revision round.

Result(s)*An outline of the PtDA was developed based on decisional needs, current literature and guidelines. It became clear that the PtDA should consist of two separate paths: one on salpingectomy in addition to abdominal surgery and one on salpingectomy as a sterilization method. Both paths contain information on the anatomy and function of ovaries and Fallopian tubes, the estimated risk reduction of ovarian cancer and the potential benefits and risks of OS. Adjustments were made following alpha-testing round one. The improved PtDA was subjected to usability tests (alpha-testing round two), in which it scored an ‘excellent’ in patient testing and a ‘good’ in tests with gynaecologists.

Conclusion*In collaboration with patients and healthcare professionals, a PtDA was developed on OS. Both patients and gynaecologists thought it a usable aid which supports patients in making an informed decision whether to undergo an opportunistic salpingectomy, and supports the counselling process by gynaecologists.