Puerperal Weck clip sterilization: study I (first study of two consecutive studies).

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Surgical Devices
• Reproductive Medicine

Background:

• Puerperal sterilization is a common method for permanent contraception.
• The Weck pistol-grip applicator was used for clip application during puerperal sterilization.
• Evaluating the efficacy and mechanical performance of surgical devices is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the corrected failure rate of the original Weck pistol-grip applicator for puerperal sterilization.
• To document mechanical difficulties encountered during application.
• To analyze the configuration of recovered clips and the resulting tubal tissue histology.

Main Methods:

• One hundred and four puerperal applications using the original Weck pistol-grip applicator and large Weck clip in an inverted V configuration.
• Follow-up ranging from 37 to 42 months.
• Analysis of recovered clip configuration and tubal tissue histology.

Main Results:

• The corrected failure rate for this sterilization method was 8.7%.
• Mechanical difficulties were observed with the applicator's jaws and metal sleeve.
• Histologic examination of tubal tissue indicated potential reversibility.

Conclusions:

• The original Weck pistol-grip applicator demonstrated a significant failure rate in puerperal sterilization.
• Mechanical deficiencies in the applicator device were identified.
• Histological findings suggest that the effects of clip application on fallopian tubes may not be permanent.