Long-term sterilization failure: twenty-three years.

This case presents the longest time interval from tubal sterilization to failure by ectopic pregnancy of which we or our colleagues have ever heard. This multipara had a postpartum sterilization procedure performed at one University Hospital; 23 years later she was admitted to another University Hospital with a hemoperitoneum due to a ruptured ectopic pregnancy. Verification was affirmed by examination of the records of both hospitals.

A comparison of magnesium sulfate and indomethacin to magnesium sulfate only for tocolysis in preterm labor with advanced cervical dilation.

Preterm labor becomes more difficult to inhibit as the degree of cervical dilation increases. Indeed, some physicians do not even attempt tocolysis with advanced cervical dilation. We compared single- versus double-agent tocolytic therapy when the cervix was dilated 3 cm or greater.

Magnetic resonance imaging of defects in DeLancey's vaginal support levels I, II, and III.

Objective: The aim was to demonstrate paravaginal defects at DeLancey's levels I, II, and III by pelvic magnetic resonance imaging scanning in patients with symptomatic pelvic relaxation preoperatively and to demonstrate the disappearance of such defects after surgical repair.

Study Design: Magnetic resonance imaging scans of the pelvis were performed in 12 patients exhibiting cystourethroceles and symptomatic urinary stress incontinence.

Results: Magnetic resonance imaging scans of bilateral fascial defects at the upper third of the vagina (level I) were unremarkable except for the constant "chevron sign," whereas the middle third of the vagina (level II) displayed the "saddlebags sign," and the lower third of the vagina (level III) displayed the "mustache sign.