Laparoscopic tubal occlusion with silicone rubber bands

Application of the silastic ring to the Fallopian tubes through the laparoscope seems to be a simple, safe and acceptable method of tubal sterilization. The technique and results in 337 patients are described. In the majority of cases, the procedure was effected in the outpatient department under local anaesthesia. Transsection of the tube (with or without bleeding), tearing of the mesosalpinx, and avulsion of the tube at the uterotubal junction were the most common complications; with experience and adherence to the proper technique of ring application, the above can be minimized. The pregnancy rate following this procedure seems to be acceptable, but long-term follow-up is necessary for definitive conclusions.