Tubal sterilization by means of selective catheterization: comparison of a hydrogel and a collagen glue.

PURPOSE

To test, in an animal model, two potentially suitable materials for nonsurgical selective tubal sterilization.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A hydrogel that forms an in situ plug by phase inversion of a polymer solution was placed in four rabbit fallopian tubes, and a proprietary collagen glue was placed into three rabbit fallopian tubes by means of transvaginal fluoroscopic fallopian tube catheterization. As controls, 11 tubes were catheterized without sterilization material injection. The rabbits were bred, and the presence of embryos was confirmed with palpation and at autopsy. Histologic analysis was performed.

RESULTS

The short-term contraception rate was 100% in the hydrogel group, 33% in the collagen glue group, and 0% in the control group (P < .001 hydrogel group, P not significant in collagen group). Inflammation was minimal in the three groups (P not significant).

CONCLUSION

The collagen glue had an insufficient contraceptive effect and should be abandoned. The hydrogel used proved effective and biocompatible, and long-term studies of this compound are warranted.