The effectiveness of different methods of laparoscopic tubal sterilization
Frangenheim, H.
Geburtshilfe und Frauenheilkunde 40(10): 896-900
1980
ISSN/ISBN: 0016-5751 PMID: 6449397 DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1037236Document Number: 449908
If sterilization is offered to a young multipara today with the possibility of eventual recanalization, most essential is thorough patient information. The patient must be informed that less aggressive techniques such as thermocoagulation or mechanical tubal occlusion carry a higher risk of failure and subsequent pregnancy, 2%-4%-7%. Such failures are part of the method and should not be considered malpractice. Extensive patient information about pros and cons is the only way to avoid future problems. Spontaneous tubal recanalization has occurred even with the most skilled surgeon. With 20 years of personal experience with almost all methods of laparoscopic tubal sterilization, the author recommends bipolar sterilization on 1 site of the isthmic tubal portion with division of the coagulated tissue. Even so, sufficient tubal tissue should remain intact to allow for eventual later recanalization. This method has never disappointed anyone, and thus far no pregnancy has been observed among our patients. (Author's modified)