Implementation of a successful outpatient laparoscopic sterilization program in Calcutta.

This study presents data on 109 women undergoing laparoscopic sterilization by tubal rings at the Calcutta Medical Research Institute and Hospital. The average operating time was 15 minutes and the average stay in the recovery room was 4 hours. The overall complication rate was 18%, including surgical and early postoperative complications. All patients returned for follow-up. Long-term follow-up will be required to determine the rates of delayed complications and the efficacy of the procedure.

Evaluation of 496 menstrual regulation and abortion patients in Calcutta.

From March to December 1975, 496 patients were studied to compare the safety and effectiveness of menstrual regulation (MR) performed with a Karman hand syringe and first trimester abortion performed with an electric vacuum aspirator. All procedures were done on an outpatient basis. The complication rate for the MR patients was significantly lower than that for the other first trimester abortion patients. Study results indicate that MR with the Karman syringe is a safer, simpler and less costly procedure than first trimester abortion with the electric vacuum aspirator. Further research and study are necessary to determine the effect of the initial and repeat MR procedures on women's menstrual patterns and future pregnancies, including any subsequent prematurity, stillbirths and Rh immunization.