Learning hysteroscopy sterilization and the Ovabloc System with Hyskon

A review of the first 100 and the last 100 patients in a series of 268 patients sterilized by hysteroscopic injection of liquid silicone into the fallopian was made to evaluate the success rate as it relates to experience with the procedure. The two groups were similar in composition. While the percentage of patients sterilized increased only from 91% in the first 100 patients to 94% in the last 100 patients the numbers that were sterilized at the time of the first procedure increased by 9%. The two major reasons for repeated procedures were tip separation and tubal spasm. The former may become less of a problem with new manufacturing changes. Tubal spasm was reduced as a problem by controlling the temperature of Hyskon but it remains a difficult problem in a smaller number of patients even in the last group. Other causes for repeated procedures were primarily related to operator inexperience and investigational problems. They appear not to be a significant problem for physicians who will learn this procedure in future. This procedure is well received by patients. Hysteroscopists will find it a valuable outpatient female sterilization technique.