Minilaparotomy as a primary interval sterilization procedure in a high risk population

200 cases of interval sterilization, using suprapubic minilaparotomy and the Osathanondh uterine elevation technique, were performed. A large number of patients was overweight (58.5%), and some had major medical problems (20%) or had prveious pelvic surgery (4%). All procedures were done under intravenous sedation and local anesthesia on an out-patient basis. The follow-up rate was 97%. Total complication rate was 6%. Neither serious complications nor readmissions to the hospital were found. The overall results were interpreted as demonstrating that the original Osathanondh minilaparotomy technique, with minor modifications, is suitable for use in high risk patients requiring permanent sterilization.