Essure: Alternative to Tubal Ligation at AGH
Essure is a non-invasive, permanent sterilization procedure for women. This irreversible procedure is the first alternative to tubal ligation for women seeking permanent birth control. Currently, an estimated 700,000 American women undergo tubal ligation each year, a procedure which requires an abdominal incision and is typically done under general anesthesia. Tubal ligation involves sealing or cutting a woman's fallopian tubes to prevent sperm from reaching the egg for fertilization.
According to Eugene Scioscia Jr., M.D., System Vice Chair for Clinical Operations, WPAHS Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Essure therapy requires no incisions and can be performed without general anesthesia. The procedure involves inserting a tiny metallic coil into the fallopian tubes through the vagina, cervix and uterus. The coils are left in the fallopian tubes, prompting scar tissue to grow in and around the device to permanently block the tube. Dr. Scioscia said the coil is deployed into the fallopian tube through the cervix using a minimally invasive transcervical tubal access catheter. The procedure does not require cutting or penetrating the abdomen and can be performed in a less costly clinical setting. The 35 minute procedure is painless, and in most cases women are discharged about 45 minutes after it is completed.Three months post-procedure an x-ray is required to confirm the tube has been completely occluded.
"This procedure has a profound impact on the decisions and means by which women decide to end their childbearing years," Dr. Scioscia said. Data from the Pivotal trial of Essure showed that 92 percent of patients who were employed outside the home returned to work in one day or less following the procedure, and most patients were back to their regular physical activities within one to two days. Like all birth control methods, Essure is not expected to be 100 percent effective, so physicians recommend a three-month waiting period after the procedure during which women are encouraged to use another form of birth control.
For more information about the Essure device contact the AGH OB/GYN Department at 1-877-284-2000.
Last Updated: September 24, 2009
