Laparoscopic sterilization as an outpatient procedure
Madrigal, V.; Edelman, D.A.; Goldsmith, A.
Journal of Reproductive Medicine 18(5): 261-264
1977
ISSN/ISBN: 0024-7758 PMID: 141515 Document Number: 431021
From June 1972 to March 1976, 2035 laparoscopic sterilizations were performed at the Asociacion Demografica Salvadorena free-standing outpatient clinic. Methods used were electrocoagulation, spring-loaded clips, or tubal rings. The service was set up in a small treatment room, and performed under local anesthesia. There was a hospital near the clinic as a back-up facility. Patients were discharged 3-6 hours after the operation. The surgeon was unable to perform sterilization in only .49% of the patients, and surgical complications occurred in only 2.7% of all patients. It is suggested that laparoscopic sterilization in an outpatient clinic can be safe if the surgeon is skilled, a well-equipped hospital is near, and ready transportation is adequate.