Current aspects of sterilization. The selection and application of various surgical methods of sterilization.

A partial analysis of 4,270 female sterilizations performed during a 7 year time period was described as related to changing patterns of application according to a sterilization program. Special attention was given to such factors as type of procedure, reasons for selection of procedures, ancillary conditions, mortality rate, and follow-up. A plea is made for accuracy when a sterilization is truly used as the primary indication for surgery and for flexibility and individualization in the application of sterilization techniques.