The choice of sterilizing procedure according to its potential reversibility with microsurgery

Twenty-seven women were evaluated for reversal of previous tubal sterilization in the 2-year span beginning January 1, 1976. Of the thirteen who came to surgery, only seven were able to undergo reanastomosis. Five of these seven had had Pomeroy type ligations and two had ahd "one-burn" electrocoagulation. Six patients who had had "two- or three burn" electrocoagulation did not have sufficient length of fallopian tube remaining. Tubal patency was achieved in 87.5% of those who underwent reanastomosis. The pregnancy rate was 37.5%, with no ectopic pregnancies. Electrocoagulation is not recommended in healthy young women.