Endoscopic sterilization and related problems
Frangenheim, H.
Contraception Fertilite Sexualite 10(7): 469-472
1982
ISSN/ISBN: 0301-861X PMID: 12264458 Document Number: 189438
Endoscopic tubal sterilization by electrocoagulation with unipolar current is very effective, 0.03% failure rate, but difficult to use because of the danger of burns. Sterilization by bipolar current is just as effective and much safer, and it is the method most used today. Sterilization by thermocoagulation allows the use of a low-frequency current, but has a failure rate of 4-7%. Mechanical methods of laparoscopic sterilization include the use of several kinds of clips, with failure rate of 2%, and a recanalization rate of 2%, and the use of Fallopian rings, also of several types. Failure rate of Fallopian rings is about the same as with conventional tubal ligation methods; the application of rings, however, can cause very serious abdominal pains. It appears that mechanical methods of sterilization have more chances for reversibility than other methods. However, it is extremely important that the doctor informs the patient that no sterilization method is totally reversible.