Risks of laparoscopic fulguration and transection of the fallopian tube

The more common methods of laparoscopic sterilization involve transection of the fallopian tubes. There are, however, a number of cases accumulating in which coagulation without transection has been employed. The risks of bleeding requiring the use of laparotomy are considerably reduced with this technic. There is no increased risk of electrical injury. The pregnancy rate is essentially the same in both methods. It is suggested that failures with tubal transection may be secondary to fistula formation and an inherent problem, whereas the failures with coagulation without transection are secondary to inadequate coagulation and are therefore more easily prevented.