Attempted transcervical occlusion of the fallopian tube with the Nd:YAG laser

A prospective multi-center trial was initiated to test the efficacy and safety of transcervical occlusion of the fallopian tube with the Nd:YAG laser. A multi-center approach was deemed necessary because of the large sample size required to test adequately the effectiveness of sterilization procedures. However, efforts to continue the study as designed were abandoned because, of the 17 subjects completing the study, only four (24%) had bilateral tubal occlusion at the site of laser treatment. We conclude that the hysteroscopic method, as tested, is inadequate to provide permanent sterilization. Modification of the technique or alterations in patient preparation may improve the outcome.