Failure of sterilization after clip placement

BACKGROUND: Tubal sterilization is a common method of contraception used worldwide. The Filshie clip is a device designed to occlude the fallopian tubes. It is common practice to apply the clips across the isthmus using laparoscopy. It is often suggested that failures occur due to problems with the technique used to occlude the fallopian tubes. CASE: After insertion of an intrauterine device, a patient experienced an unplanned pregnancy and subsequent abortion. The intrauterine device was removed, and bilateral Filshie clips were applied by an experienced surgeon. After this procedure, the patient experienced a second unplanned pregnancy and subsequent abortion. A partial salpingectomy was performed after the fallopian tubes were examined, and it was confirmed that the Filshie clips were applied appropriately. CONCLUSION: It is important to understand why sterilization clips lead to contraceptive failure and to inform patients of this risk. Contraceptive failure after female sterilization remains a medical issue.