[Report on 3,186 laparoscopic tubal sterilizations]

Between 1976 and 1984, 3,186 laparoscopic tubal sterilisations were performed in the Department of Gynaecology of the City Hospital at München-Harlaching. No death was registered. One severe late complication was observed, but its connection with the laparoscopic intervention is doubtful. 71 minor complications were analysed statistically. During the subsequent observation period of 8 1/2 years, 12 pregnancies were registered, representing a failure rate of 3.8 per thousand. 11 out of these 12 pregnancies were tubal pregnancies. We think that laparoscopic tubal sterilisation is an important contraceptive method, comparable, in terms of safety and mortality risk, to taking the pill. Its application is suitable after family planning has been finalised. The mean age of our patients was 36.5 years.