Silicone band sterilization with radiographic and laparoscopic evaluation

Abstract

Laparoscopic tubal sterilization, using a Silastic band to occlude the tubal lumen, was performed on 224 patients. The incidence of complications was low and only 2 pregnancies occurred. Further evaluation by hysterosalpingography on 97 patients revealed 2 distinct images. The site of tubal occlusion was seen on laparoscopy performed on 7 patients. The radiographic and laparoscopic findings are discussed.

PIP: A mechanical noncoagulation obliterative technique - Falope ring or Silastic band - was used for laparoscopic tubal sterilization on 224 patients at the Brookdale Hospital Medical Center for July 1, 1976 through december 31, 1977. Hysterosalpingography under fluoroscopic guidance using Ethiodol was performed on 97 patients, 5-11 months after surgery, and observation laparoscopy was performed on 7 patients, 8-12 months after the initial operation. Tubal transection occurred 15 times in 12 of 224 patients (5.4%). Management included banding, coagulation, and both coagulation and banding. Pain requiring analgesia on the 1st postoperative day or requiring a prescribed analgesia at home was present in 14 patients (6.7%). Infection appeared as salpingitis-peritonitis in a patient whose IUD was removed immediately prior to banding. Pregnancy occurred in 2 patients. The incidence of complications was low.