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

Abstract 

Objective: To determine the efficacy of a computer-controlled bipolar endotubal catheter system designed to accomplish safe, effective, and inexpensive female sterilization in preventing pregnancy in a rabbit model.

Design: Prospective controlled study.

Setting: University animal care facility.

Animal(s): Sixty healthy virginal female New Zealand white rabbits.

Intervention(s): Rabbits were assigned to the following groups: [1] endotubal radiofrequency minimal energy (95°C) treatment; [2] endotubal radiofrequency maximal energy (105°C) treatment; [3] endouterine radiofrequency (105°C) treatment; [4] nonsurgical control; [5] laparotomy-only control; [6] endotubal radiofrequency sham control; and [7] external 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 nontreated controls.

Result(s): No pregnancies were observed in any of the uterine horns 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 energy below the radiofrequency minimum of 95°C. The outcomes of the treatment groups were significantly different from those of the nonsurgical and sham surgical control groups.

Conclusion(s): With adequate tissue heating, 100% sterilization efficacy was achieved with a new, computer-controlled bipolar catheter, whereas pregnancies occurred in all untreated control groups. If human studies support these results, the goal of a safe, effective means of transcervical sterilization may be realized.

Keywords:  Sterilization, female, radiofrequency, bipolar, computer, rabbit, contraception, fallopian tube, Kleppinger forceps