Sterilization by tubal cauterization and transection at laparoscopy.

The authors describe and summarize their experience with sterilization by tubal cauterization and transection at laparoscopy. The technique was devised by Palmer and was first reported in English by Steptoe. The authors use the almost identical equipment and technique as that described by Steptoe. All 16 procedures carried out over an 8 month period have been successful and without incident. The patients were discharged from the hospital on the first or second postoperative day. 6 weeks postoperatively hysterosalpingography was done in 15 of the paitents. It is maintained that in the hands of a surgeon esperienced in laparoscopy one should anticipate satisfactory operative results and significant savings in costs and morbidity to the patient requiring interval tubal sterilization. Figures and legends accompany the article.