Gynecological Findings at Laparoscopy for Tubal Sterilization in the Pre-Digital Era

Study Objective: Recent advances in computer science, digital photography and robotics have made seasoned gynecologists to miss and young physicians to be deprived of the opportunity to know about how laparoscopy was performed 30 years ago. Digital cameras were not available, computers were rudimental, optics was unsophisticated and instrumentation was minimal. Nevertheless patient care and accurate diagnosis were skillfully performed. The purpose of our study was to revisit gynecological findings at laparoscopy performed for tubal sterilization in the pre-digital era. Methods: We review the archives of laparoscopic photographs performed when interesting findings were documented, in patients who underwent laparoscopic tubal sterilization between 1982 and 1988. Interesting findings were defined as significant anatomic variations or pathologic results clearly documented. The equipment used for laparoscopy included a 10 mm 0 degree Laprocator (JHPIEGO) telescope, 12 cm Verres gas needle, 11 mm trocar with canula sleeve, carbon dioxide gas and Falope or Yoon rings with applicator. For the photography halogen light source, fiber optic cable extensor and 35 mm color Kodak crom film were used. Results: Thirty four photographs with interesting findings were identified. The pourpourri of pathology identified included: endometriosis, endometrioma, Allen Masters Syndrome, salpingitis isthmica nodosa, tuberculosis, intra peritoneal adhesions, conjoint ovaries, Lippes loop intraperitoneal, Stein-Leventhal Syndrome, failed tubal sterilization and hypoplastic uterus. Conclusions: We revisited interesting gynecological findings at laparoscopy performed for tubal sterilization in the pre-digital era