Randomized trial to compare perioperative outcomes of Filshie clip vs. Pomeroy technique for postpartum and intraoperative cesarean tubal sterilization: a pilot study.
OBJECTIVE
To compare, by conducting a randomized trial, Filshie clip and Pomeroy techniques for postpartum and intrapartum cesarean sterilizations in a United States teaching hospital with respect to surgeon preference and perioperative outcomes.


METHODS
Thirty-two obstetric patients consented for sterilization were randomized to Pomeroy technique or Filshie clip placement. Following the surgical procedure, surgeons and operating room technicians completed a survey regarding their experience with the procedures and preference. Patient demographic data, time for procedure and follow-up visits were obtained by chart review.


RESULTS
For most postpartum sterilizations, the mean duration of the procedure was almost 7 min faster for the Filshie clip technique (p = 0.08); perioperative outcomes were equivalent (p = 0.05). Application of the Filshie clip was rated easier than Pomeroy suture application and, overall, the Filshie clip sterilization procedure was rated less difficult (p = 0.03). Seventy percent of surgeons preferred the Filshie clip technique and would choose it if only one postpartum sterilization method was available.


CONCLUSIONS
For obstetric sterilization, surgeons preferred the Filshie clip over the Pomeroy technique. In addition, operating time was shorter for the Filshie clip. This pilot study suggests that use of the Filshie clip technique has the potential to establish a new standard of care for postpartum and intrapartum cesarean sterilization.
Kohaut
Bettina A
BA
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Florida Health Science Center/Jacksonville, 3627 University Boulevard South, Suite #355, Jacksonville, FL 32216, USA.
Musselman
B Lynn
BL
Sanchez-Ramos
Luis
L
Kaunitz
Andrew M
AM
D000328:Adult; D002585:Cesarean Section / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007432:Intraoperative Period; D010865:Pilot Projects; D049590:Postpartum Period; D013246:Sterilization, Tubal / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods*; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome