A systematic review of long-term complications of mechanical tubal occlusion

To collate the available evidence of the rare but identified late complications of mechanical tubal occlusion. The primary objective is to describe the nature of these longer-term acute presentations. Secondary objectives are: 1) to delineate their aetiology, 2) characterise imaging findings and 3) identify successful management options.

Literature search using National Institute of Clinical Excellence Healthcare Databases Advanced Search and terms (complicat* OR torsion OR infect* OR migrat* OR extru*) AND (tubal occlusion OR sterili*). Results reviewed by CM and JH for eligibility.

33 published case reports of long-term complications of mechanical tubal occlusion. 30 demonstrated migration of the device. 16 had infective pathology. Multiple modalities of imaging used with no clear evidence that one was superior. Medical and surgical management was used with removal of device proving definitive treatment.

Long-term complications of mechanical tubal occlusion are rare and show a varied clinical course. Clinicians should be mindful of this when evaluating patients in the acute setting, as there is no identified timeline as to when complications may occur. Imaging is almost always essential for diagnosis and the modality should be directed by the clinical presentation. Definitive management is by removal of the occlusive device, but this carries its own risks.