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Medical Author:

Avi J Sklar, MD, FACOG, FACS, FRCSC

Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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There is a device that acts as a form of tubal ligation by blocking the Fallopian tubes. The US Food and Drug Administration has approved a small metallic implant (called the Essure System) that is placed into the Fallopian tubes of women who wish to be permanently sterilized. Unlike other currently available tubal sterilization procedures for women, placement of the device does not require an incision or general anesthesia.

During the Essure procedure, your health care professional inserts an obstructive device into each of the two Fallopian tubes at the time of hysteroscopy. This is done with a special catheter that is inserted through the vagina into the uterus and then into the Fallopian tube. The device works by inducing scar tissue to form over the implant, blocking the Fallopian tube and preventing fertilization of the egg by the sperm.

A similar device known as the Adiana System is also available in which a silicone implant is introduced to the Fallopian tubes and inducing the production of scar tissue.

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