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Updated: May 30, 2026

Intact Histological Characterization of Brain-implanted Microdevices and Surrounding Tissue
Published on: February 11, 2013
Mechanism of action of the Adiana(®) device: a histologic perspective
Thierry G Vancaillie1, Douglas C Harrington, James M Anderson
1University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. thierryvancaillie@mac.com
Background:
The study was conducted to confirm the mechanism of action of the Adiana permanent contraception device by means of histologic analysis of long-term specimens.
Study Design:
Fifteen specimens were obtained from eight subjects undergoing hysterectomy 2 to 4 years after the Adiana procedure. Serial sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, as well as epithelial membrane antigen immunostain.
Results:
A normal foreign body reaction with minimal chronic inflammatory changes was observed in all specimens. Immunostaining for epithelial membrane antigen was absent in the interstitial tissue surrounding the matrix.
Conclusion:
Histologic analysis of long-term specimens supports the mechanism of action of the Adiana permanent contraception device.
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