Microsurgical reanastomosis of the fallopian tube: Increasingly successful outcome for reversal of previous sterilization procedures

Reanastomosis of the fallopian tube represents a potential means of restoring fertility to women who have previously had sterilization procedures. During a 40-month period from January 1977 to June 1980, 46 such women had end-to-end reanastomosis at Vanderbilt University Hospital, 59% after a change in their martial status. The surgical procedure included microsurgical technic, with the use of antibiotics, corticosteroids, intraperitoneal dextran, and postoperative hydrotubation. No stents or splints were used. Tubal patency was demonstrated in 43 patients (93%). Pregnancy was achieved in 25 of the 37 patients (68%) properly followed up for one year. There were no ectopic pregnancies. In three patients who did not conceive, a “second-look” laparoscopy revealed the presence of pelvic adhesions. Such a procedure allows a more accurate assessment of both the cause of the continued infertility and the future prognosis.