Microlaparoscopic tubal ligation under local anesthesia.

Local anesthesia to perform laparoscopic tubal ligation is of increased interest due to potential safety and cost benefits. We performed tubal ligation using microlaparoscopic techniques with local anesthesia and continuous intravenous sedation in 16 women desiring sterilization. Operating and recovery times and patient satisfaction were recorded and compared with values for 30 similar women undergoing microlaparoscopic tubal ligation under general anesthesia. Mean +/- SD operating and recovery times for local and general anesthesia were 29.3+/- 8.1 versus 33.6 +/- 11.1 minutes, and 83.9 +/- 59.4 versus 114.5 +/- 69.8 minutes, respectively. Patient satisfaction was high. The potential for cost savings when performed in an outpatient or clinic setting is significant.