Hysterosalpingographic follow-up of laparoscopic sterilization

Two hundred and fifty of 323 laparoscopically sterilized patients had hysterosalpingographic (HSG) follow-up. A Foley catheter was used in hysterosalpingography. Of these patients, 3.6 per cent demonstrated fistula; 1.2 per cent were found to have round ligament burns, and 0.618 per cent became pregnant. Mechanism of fistula formation, prevention, and management is discussed. The incidence of intrauterine pregnancy and ectopic pregnancy after laparoscopic sterilization is discussed, and the literature is reviewed. Based on these data, it is concluded that HSG follow-up is helpful in teaching institutions and where the laparoscopic sterilization is carried out by inexperienced operators. Routine HSG follow-up is not recommended.