Histological evaluation of a new concept eliminating the need for suture or glue during fallopian tube anastomosis in the sheep model

Objective: To evaluate the pathological outcomes of a newly introduced technique for tubal anastomosis in an animal model. Materials and Methods: The uterine tubes of 12 sheep were transected bilaterally. A polyvinyl chloride catheter was passed through the fimbrial end. The resected ends were approximated, and the catheter was fixed in place using titanium clips. No suture material or glue was used. The time required for the procedure, patency of the tubes, fibrosis, giant cell reaction, inflammation, and luminal changes were evaluated 30 days after surgery. Results: Epithelial continuity was present in 21 (87.S%) ofthe resected tubes. Acute inflammatory changes and herniation leading to fistulization were observed in 2 (8.3%) and 1 (4.2%) of the specimens, respectively. There was no fibrosis or giant cell reaction. Conclusion: Passage of an inert catheter left in situ for tubal anastomosis is associated with a high rate of reepithelization in an animal model. Our technique might have potential use in uterine tube reconstruction.