Computer-controlled bipolar endotubal sterilization is successful in a rabbit model

Objective: To determine the efficacy of a computer-controlled bipolar endot ubal catheter system designed to accomplish safe, effective, and inexpensiv e female sterilization in preventing pregnancy in a rabbit model. Design: Prospective controlled study. Setting: University animal carl facility. Animal(s): Six healthy virginal female New Zealand white rabbits Intervention(s): Rabbits were assigned to the following groups: [1] endotub al radiofrequency minimal energy (95 degrees C) treatment; [2] endotubal ra diofrequency maximal energy (105 degrees C) treatment; [3] endouterine radi ofrequency (105 degrees C) treatment; [4] nonsurgical control; [5] laparoto my-only control; [6] endotubal radiofrequency sham control; and [7] externa l Kleppinger forceps bipolar cautery control. Rabbits were mated at 4 or 12 weeks after treatment. Main Outcome Measure(s): Pregnancy outcomes in treated animals and nontreat ed controls. Result(s): No pregnancies were observed in any of the uterine hems in which minimal or maximal energy was delivered to the fallopian tubes or uterus, although pregnancy occurred in one horn as a result of the delivery of ener gy below the radiofrequency minimum of 95 degrees C. The outcomes of the tr eatment groups were significantly different from those of the nonsurgical a nd sham surgical control groups. Conclusion(s): With adequate tissue heating, 100% sterilization efficacy wa s achieved with a new, computer-controlled bipolar catheter, whereas pregna ncies occured in all untreated control groups. If human studies support the se results, the goal of a safe, effective means of transcervical sterilizat ion may be realized.