Surgical reversal of tubal ligation.

An increasing number of women are requesting reversal of previous tubal sterilization. The potential for reversibility of the commonly performed sterilization procedures is discussed in connection with the emerging profile of the woman who is at risk of changing her mind. Prior to tubal reconstruction, an infertility screening process should be instituted. Details of this process are given. The current controversies about terminology, the role of splints and stents, the place of postoperative lavage, and the role of systemic or intraperitoneal anti-inflammatory agents are presented, together with the arguments for and against microsurgical procedures.