Controlled radiofrequency endotubal sterilization.
OBJECTIVE
A safe, effective, inexpensive method of transcervical tubal sterilization could have a major impact on women's health. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of a new radiofrequency catheter prototype designed for endotubal sterilization using animal models.


METHODS
Animal research laboratory.


METHODS
Prospective observational study.


METHODS
The optimal energy delivery to create a complete circumferential transmural thermal lesion in the tube was determined in 114 in vitro acute studies using porcine and bovine fallopian tubes. A study was then initiated with eight mini-pigs. Thirty-four lesions were made in the fallopian tubes using computer-controlled power delivery. Three weeks later the animals were euthanized and evaluated.


RESULTS
A hydrosalpinx was evident in 8/11 of the tubes with separate proximal and distal cautery, implying occlusion at each of these sites. Complete occlusion of the tubes was seen at 12/22 sites evaluated by histology. Narrowing was seen in 9/22, and 1/22 was open.


CONCLUSIONS
The endotubal cautery prototype creates a reproducible lesion, but did not always cause complete closure of the tube in this preliminary study. However, based on our results, we hypothesize that a radiofrequency catheter can be developed for minimally invasive transcervical sterilization.
Hurst
B S
BS
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, USA.
Thomsen
S
S
Lawes
K
K
Ryan
T
T
D000818:Animals; D017115:Catheter Ablation; D002417:Cattle; D004566:Electrodes; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005260:Female; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D008954:Models, Biological; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013246:Sterilization, Tubal / Q000379:methods*; D013552:Swine; D013556:Swine, Miniature