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Brant A, Schlegel PN. Modern surgical treatment of azoospermia. Curr Opin Urol 2023; 33:39-44. [PMID: 36301052 DOI: 10.1097/mou.0000000000001055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To review noteworthy research from the last 2 years on surgical management of azoospermia. RECENT FINDINGS The recommended treatments for nonobstructive and obstructive azoospermia have not appreciably changed. However, recent level-1 evidence has reinforced superiority of micro-dissection testicular sperm extraction over sperm aspiration in men with nonobstructive azoospermia, and several studies have identified genetic and other clinical factors that may aid in selecting candidates for testicular sperm extraction. Machine learning technology has shown promise as a decision support system for patient selection prior to sperm retrieval as well a tool to aid in sperm identification from testis tissue. SUMMARY Most men with obstructive azoospermia who desire fertility can be offered either surgical reconstruction or sperm retrieval. For men with nonobstructive azoospermia, sperm retrieval with microdissection testicular sperm extraction remains the gold standard treatment. Uncovering more genetic causes of nonobstructive azoospermia may aid in properly counseling and selecting patients for microdissection testicular sperm extraction. Neural networks and deep learning may have a future role in patient selection for surgical sperm retrieval and postprocedural sperm identification.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter N Schlegel
- Department of Urology
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
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2
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Marinaro J, Goldstein M. Microsurgical Management of Male Infertility: Compelling Evidence That Collaboration with Qualified Male Reproductive Urologists Enhances Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Outcomes. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11154593. [PMID: 35956208 PMCID: PMC9369943 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11154593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A male factor plays a significant role in a couple's reproductive success. Today, advances in reproductive technology, such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), have allowed it to be possible for just a single sperm to fertilize an egg, thus, overcoming many of the traditional barriers to male fertility, such as a low sperm count, impaired motility, and abnormal morphology. Given these advances in reproductive technology, it has been questioned whether a reproductive urologist is needed for the evaluation and treatment of infertile and subfertile men. In this review, we aim to provide compelling evidence that collaboration between reproductive endocrinologists and reproductive urologists is essential for optimizing a couple's fertility outcomes, as well as for improving the health of infertile men and providing cost-effective care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Marinaro
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Marc Goldstein
- Center for Male Reproductive Medicine and Microsurgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, 525 East 68th St., Starr Pavilion, 9th Floor (Starr 900), New York, NY 10065, USA
- Correspondence:
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3
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Zhang Z, Zhang Y, Zhang N. Clinical outcome of microsurgical vasoepididymostomy versus epididymal or testicular sperm retrieval combined with intracytoplasmic sperm injection in obstructive azoospermia males. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14458. [PMID: 35688176 DOI: 10.1111/and.14458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
This purpose of the retrospective study was to compare the clinical outcome of microsurgical vasoepididymostomy (MVE) and sperm retrieval combined with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) in the treatment of males with obstructive azoospermia. From February 2018 to December 2019, a total of 69 males with obstructive azoospermia underwent MVE while 351 males with obstructive azoospermia in their first ICSI cycles were enrolled. Patients in the MVE group achieved higher pregnancy rate and births delivered rate than those in ICSI group (pregnancy rate, 44.6% vs. 27.6% for MVE and ICSI, respectively; delivery rate, 38.5% versus 25.8% for MVE and ICSI, respectively). Besides, lower female age (<35 vs. ≥35 years old, OR 1.15, 95% CI = 1.08-1.21), higher sperm concentration and forward motility after MVE((sperm concentration, OR (95% CI) = 1.12 (1.08-1.23), sperm forward motility, OR (95% CI) = 1.10 (1.06-1.20)) were associated with higher probability of pregnancy. Based on these data, it has been found that MVE is the prior option for males with obstructive azoospermia suitable for the surgery, other than direct subjected to ICSI. More high quality studies are needed in the future due to the non-randomized design and the relative small size of this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Zhang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, China
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4
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Cheng PJ, Kim J, Craig JR, Alukal J, Pastuszak AW, Walsh TJ, Hotaling JM. "The Back-up Vasectomy Reversal." Simultaneous Sperm Retrieval and Vasectomy Reversal in the Couple With Advanced Maternal Age: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis. Urology 2021; 153:175-180. [PMID: 33812879 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2021.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Revised: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the cost-effectiveness of different fertility options in men who have undergone vasectomy in couples with a female of advanced maternal age (AMA). The options include vasectomy reversal (VR), sperm retrieval (SR) with in vitro fertilization (IVF), and the combination of VR and SR with IVF, which is a treatment pathway that has been understudied. MATERIALS AND METHODS Using TreeAge software, a model-based cost-utility analysis was performed estimating the cost per quality-adjusted life years (QALY) in couples with infertility due to vasectomy and advanced female age over a period of one year. The model stratified for female age (35-37, 38-40, >40) and evaluated four strategies: VR followed by natural conception (NC), SR with IVF, VR and SR followed by failed NC and then IVF, and VR and SR followed by failed IVF and then NC. QALY estimates and outcome probabilities were obtained from the literature and average patient charges were calculated from high-volume centers. RESULTS The most cost-effective fertility strategy was to undergo VR and try for NC (cost-per-QALY: $7,150 (35-37 y), $7,203 (38-40 y), and $7,367 (>40 y)). The second most cost-effective strategy was the "back-up vasectomy reversal": undergo VR and SR, attempt IVF and switch to NC if IVF fails. CONCLUSION In couples with a history of vasectomy and female of AMA, it is most cost-effective to undergo a VR. If the couple opts for SR for IVF, it is more cost-effective to undergo a concomitant VR than SR alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip J Cheng
- Reproductive Medicine Associates of New Jersey, Basking Ridge, NJ, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences.
| | - Jaewhan Kim
- Department of Health and Kinesiology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - James R Craig
- Fontana Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente, Fontana, CA
| | - Joseph Alukal
- Department of Urology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY
| | | | - Thomas J Walsh
- Department of Urology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - James M Hotaling
- Division of Urology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, Reproductive Medicine Associates of New Jersey
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5
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The Effect of Male Age Over 50 Years on Vasectomy Reversal Outcomes. Urology 2020; 145:134-140. [DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2020.04.141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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6
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Lyu KL, Zhuang JT, Li PS, Gao Y, Zhao L, Zhang YD, Zhou MK, Yu JW, Feng X, Sun XZ, Deng CH, Tu XA. A novel experience of deferential vessel-sparing microsurgical vasoepididymostomy. Asian J Androl 2019; 20:576-580. [PMID: 29974884 PMCID: PMC6219301 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_46_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Microsurgical longitudinal intussusception vasoepididymostomy (LIVE) has been widely used to treat epididymal obstructive azoospermia since 2004. Although the deferential vasculature plays an important role in supplying blood to the testis and epididymis, little attention has been paid to the potential benefits of sparing the deferential vessels during the anastomosis in LIVE. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of deferential vessel-sparing LIVE in humans. From December 2013 to December 2015, 69 azoospermic men with epididymal obstruction due to a genital infection, trauma, or idiopathic factors underwent deferential vessel-sparing LIVE in the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China. The outcomes of these patients were analyzed retrospectively. The mean age was 31.1 years for men and 28.3 years for their partners. Fifty-nine (85.5%, 59/69) men were followed up after surgery for approximately 16 months. Patency was noted and confirmed by semen analysis (>10 000 sperm/ml) in 83.1% (49/59) of men. The natural pregnancy rate was 40.7% (24/59) by the end of the study, with 87.5% (21/24) of these natural pregnancies achieved within 12 months after surgery. No severe adverse events or complications were observed. In this study, we present a novel technique for sparing the deferential vessels during LIVE. The preliminary outcomes show this technique to be safe with favorable patency and pregnancy rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun-Long Lyu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510000, China.,Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450000, China
| | - Jin-Tao Zhuang
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Philip S Li
- Center for Male Reproductive Medicine and Microsurgery, Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine of Cornell University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Yong Gao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Liang Zhao
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Ya-Dong Zhang
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Ming-Kuan Zhou
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Jing-Wei Yu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Xin Feng
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Xiang-Zhou Sun
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Chun-Hua Deng
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Xiang-An Tu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510000, China
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7
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The management of obstructive azoospermia: a committee opinion. Fertil Steril 2019; 111:873-880. [PMID: 31029241 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Infertility due to obstructive azoospermia may be treated effectively by surgical reconstruction or by retrieval of sperm from the epididymis or testis, followed by in vitro fertilization with intracytoplasmic sperm injection. This replaces the ASRM documents titled "Sperm retrieval for obstructive azoospermia" and "The management of infertility due to obstructive azoospermia," last published in 2008.
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Affiliation(s)
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- American Society for Reproductive Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama
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8
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Hayden RP, Li PS, Goldstein M. Microsurgical vasectomy reversal: contemporary techniques, intraoperative decision making, and surgical training for the next generation. Fertil Steril 2019; 111:444-453. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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9
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Kapadia AA, Anthony M, Martinez Acevedo A, Fuchs EF, Hedges JC, Ostrowski KA. Reconsidering vasectomy reversal over assisted reproduction in older couples. Fertil Steril 2018; 109:1020-1024. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.02.118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Revised: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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10
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Alom M, Ziegelmann M, Savage J, Miest T, Köhler TS, Trost L. Office-based andrology and male infertility procedures-a cost-effective alternative. Transl Androl Urol 2017; 6:761-772. [PMID: 28904909 PMCID: PMC5583048 DOI: 10.21037/tau.2017.07.34] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND From 2014-2016, our clinical practice progressively incorporated several male infertility and andrology procedures performed under local anesthesia, including circumcision, hydrocelectomy, malleable penile prostheses, orchiectomy, penile plication, spermatocelectomy, testicular prostheses, varicocelectomy, vasectomy reversal (VR), and testicular and microepididymal sperm aspiration (TESE/MESA). Given the observed outcomes and potential financial and logistical benefits of this approach for surgeons and patients, we sought to describe our initial experience. METHODS A retrospective analysis was performed of all andrologic office-based (local anesthesia only) and select OR (general or monitored anesthesia care) procedures performed from 2014-2016. Financial and outcomes analyses were performed for infertility cases due to the homogeneity of payment modalities and number of cases available. Demographic, clinicopathologic, and procedural costs (direct and indirect) were reviewed and compared. RESULTS A total of 32 VRs, 24 hydrocelectomies, 24 TESEs, 10 circumcisions, 9 MESA/TESEs, 4 spermatocelectomies, 3 orchiectomies (1 inguinal), 2 microTESEs, 2 testicular prostheses, 1 malleable penile prosthesis, 1 penile plication, and 1 varicocelectomy. Compared to the OR, male infertility procedures performed in the clinic with local anesthesia were performed for a fraction of the cost: MESA/TESE (78% reduction), TESE (89% reduction), and VR (62% reduction). All office-based procedures were completed successfully without significant modifications to technique. Outcomes were similar between the office and OR including operative time (VR: 181 vs. 190 min, P=0.34), rate of vasoepididymostomy (VE) (23% vs. 32%, P=0.56), total sperm counts (72.2 vs. 50.9 million, P=0.56), and successful sperm retrieval (MESA/TESE 100% vs. 100%, P=1.00; TESE 80% vs. 100%, P=0.36). To our knowledge, the current study also represents the first report of office-based VE under local anesthesia alone. For hydrocelectomy procedures, recurrence (4%) and hematoma (4%) rates were low (mean 4.2 months follow-up), although this likely relates to modifications with technique and not the anesthesia or operative setting. Overall, when given the choice, 86% of patients chose an office-based approach over the OR. CONCLUSIONS Office-based andrology procedures using local anesthesia may be successfully performed without compromising surgical technique or outcomes. This approach significantly reduces costs for patients and the overall healthcare system and has become our treatment modality of choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manaf Alom
- Department of Urology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Josh Savage
- Department of Urology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Tanner Miest
- Department of Urology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Landon Trost
- Department of Urology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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11
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Abstract
Male factor infertility is common, affecting 7% of the total population and up to half of couples who are trying to conceive. Various surgical and reconstructive options allow biological paternity depending on the etiology of the male factor issues. This article describes historical treatments and newer approaches, discussing the role for traditional open surgery, microsurgery and robotic surgery, as well as interventional radiologic procedures in the management of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Velasquez
- 1 Department of Urology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA ; 2 Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Cigdem Tanrikut
- 1 Department of Urology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA ; 2 Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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12
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Goldhaber-Fiebert JD, Brandeau ML. Evaluating Cost-effectiveness of Interventions That Affect Fertility and Childbearing: How Health Effects Are Measured Matters. Med Decis Making 2015; 35:818-46. [PMID: 25926281 DOI: 10.1177/0272989x15583845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2014] [Accepted: 04/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current guidelines for economic evaluations of health interventions define relevant outcomes as those accruing to individuals receiving interventions. Little consensus exists on counting health impacts on current and future fertility and childbearing. Our objective was to characterize current practices for counting such health outcomes. METHODS We developed a framework characterizing health interventions with direct and/or indirect effects on fertility and childbearing and how such outcomes are reported. We identified interventions spanning the framework and performed a targeted literature review for economic evaluations of these interventions. For each article, we characterized how the potential health outcomes from each intervention were considered, focusing on quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) associated with fertility and childbearing. RESULTS We reviewed 108 studies, identifying 7 themes: 1) Studies were heterogeneous in reporting outcomes. 2) Studies often selected outcomes for inclusion that tend to bias toward finding the intervention to be cost-effective. 3) Studies often avoided the challenges of assigning QALYs for pregnancy and fertility by instead considering cost per intermediate outcome. 4) Even for the same intervention, studies took heterogeneous approaches to outcome evaluation. 5) Studies used multiple, competing rationales for whether and how to include fertility-related QALYs and whose QALYs to include. 6) Studies examining interventions with indirect effects on fertility typically ignored such QALYs. 7) Even recent studies had these shortcomings. Limitations include that the review was targeted rather than systematic. CONCLUSIONS Economic evaluations inconsistently consider QALYs from current and future fertility and childbearing in ways that frequently appear biased toward the interventions considered. As the Panel on Cost-Effectiveness in Health and Medicine updates its guidelines, making the practice of cost-effectiveness analysis more consistent is a priority. Our study contributes to harmonizing methods in this respect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy D Goldhaber-Fiebert
- Stanford Health Policy, Centers for Health Policy and Primary Care and Outcomes Research, Stanford University, Stanford, CA (JDGF)
| | - Margaret L Brandeau
- Department of Management Science and Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA (MLB)
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13
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van Wely M, Barbey N, Meissner A, Repping S, Silber SJ. Live birth rates after MESA or TESE in men with obstructive azoospermia: is there a difference? Hum Reprod 2015; 30:761-6. [PMID: 25740877 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How do live birth rates compare after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) for men with obstructive azoospermia when using sperm derived from testicular sperm extraction (TESE) versus microsurgical epididymal sperm aspiration (MESA)? SUMMARY ANSWER Our study suggests that proximal epididymal sperm (from MESA) result in higher live birth rates as compared with testicular sperm (from TESE) in couples where the man has obstructive azoospermia due to congenital bilateral absence of the vas deferens (CBAVD) or vasectomy. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY For couples with obstructive azoospermia, MESA (epididymal sperm) and TESE (testicular sperm) have generally been assumed to be equivalent for use in ICSI. But this assumption has never been confirmed, and this view has important clinical and basic scientific consequences. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This was a retrospective study of a consecutive cohort of 374 men with obstructive azoospermia and normal spermatogenesis, who underwent IVF and ICSI using either epididymal sperm or testicular sperm in the period 2000-2009. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The study included men undergoing MESA or TESE at St. Luke's Hospital for obstructive azoospermia due to CBAVD or vasectomy. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A total of 280 couples underwent MESA and 94 underwent TESE with ICSI. The live birth rate was 39% after MESA-ICSI and 24% after TESE-ICSI. The MESA-ICSI cycles also resulted in a significantly higher implantation rate and significantly higher clinical and ongoing pregnancy rates than the TESE-ICSI cycles. There was no significant difference in results between fresh or frozen sperm for both MESA and TESE. When adjusted for the available confounders, the odds ratio for live birth was significantly in favour of MESA-ICSI versus TESE-ICSI (OR 1.82; 95% CI 1.05-3.67). The only significant confounders were female age and ovarian reserve. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This is a retrospective cohort study and not a randomized clinical trial. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our study suggests that some aspect of sperm maturation after the sperm leaves the testicle to enter the epididymis is required for the most optimal results, even when ICSI is used for fertilization. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS No funding was used and there are no competing interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madelon van Wely
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women's and Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Natalie Barbey
- Infertility Center of St. Louis, St. Luke's Hospital, St. Louis, MO 63017, USA
| | - Andreas Meissner
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women's and Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd Repping
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women's and Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sherman J Silber
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women's and Children's Hospital, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Infertility Center of St. Louis, St. Luke's Hospital, St. Louis, MO 63017, USA
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14
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Bernie AM, Osterberg EC, Stahl PJ, Ramasamy R, Goldstein M. Vasectomy reversal in humans. SPERMATOGENESIS 2014; 2:273-278. [PMID: 23248768 PMCID: PMC3521749 DOI: 10.4161/spmg.22591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Vasectomy is the most common urological procedure in the United States with 18% of men having a vasectomy before age 45. A significant proportion of vasectomized men ultimately request vasectomy reversal, usually due to divorce and/or remarriage. Vasectomy reversal is a commonly practiced but technically demanding microsurgical procedure that restores patency of the male excurrent ductal system in 80–99.5% of cases and enables unassisted pregnancy in 40–80% of couples. The discrepancy between the anastomotic patency rates and clinical pregnancy rates following vasectomy reversal suggests that some of the biological consequences of vasectomy may not be entirely reversible in all men. Herein we review what is known about the biological sequelae of vasectomy and vasectomy reversal in humans, and provide a succinct overview of the evaluation and surgical management of men desiring vasectomy reversal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron M Bernie
- Department of Urology and Institute of Reproductive Medicine; Weill Cornell Medical College; New York-Presbyterian Hospital; New York, NY USA
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15
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Two-suture single-armed longitudinal intussusception vasoepididymostomy for obstructive azoospermia: report of patients characteristics and outcome. Int Urol Nephrol 2014; 46:2271-7. [DOI: 10.1007/s11255-014-0835-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2014] [Accepted: 08/30/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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16
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Kadioglu TC, Temple-Smith PD, Southwick G. Interpositional substitution of free vas deferens segment autografts in rat: feasibility and potential implications. BMC Urol 2014; 14:61. [PMID: 25103862 PMCID: PMC4148407 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2490-14-61] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2013] [Accepted: 07/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Insufficient vas length for performing a tension-free vasovasostomy is a problem occasionally encountered by microsurgeons. Herein we evaluated utilization of a non-vascularized vas deferens autograft in a rat model. Methods Segments of isolated vas deferens, 2.5 cm in length, were used as bilateral autografts in 15 rats. Each autograft was implanted between the two transected ends of vas deferens using end-to-end anastomosis. Fertility, sperm motility, and graft survival was evaluated and compared with the control group. Results At the end of the 3 months, 9/15 (60%) rats were able to breed successfully and 24 (80%) vas grafts were patent and viable. Large granulomata developed at the proximal anastomosis sites in 6 (20%) autografts that failed. Unilateral minimal fluid leakage was observed in 6 (20%) of the proximal (testicular end) anastomosis sites in those rats that were able to breed. Histological evaluations demonstrated that graft survival was associated with mild to severe changes in the structure of the vas autograft. On semen analysis 76% of the sperms in the experimental group had forward motility compared to 78% in the control group (p > 0.05). Conclusions Vas autograft can successfully be performed in a rat model with ultimate breeding capability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teoman Cem Kadioglu
- Department of Urology, Istanbul School of Medicine, University of Istanbul, 34365 Istanbul, Turkey.
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17
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Sharma V, Zargaroff S, Sheth KR, Le BV, Dupree JM, Sandlow JI, Polackwich AS, Hedges JC, Fuchs EF, Goldstein M, Brannigan RE. Relating economic conditions to vasectomy and vasectomy reversal frequencies: a multi-institutional study. J Urol 2014; 191:1835-40. [PMID: 24423435 DOI: 10.1016/j.juro.2013.12.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/23/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE It was theorized that the use of permanent contraceptive methods may vary with economic conditions. We evaluated the relationship between vasectomy/vasectomy reversal frequencies at several large referral centers and national economic indicators during 2 recessions spanning 2001 to 2011. MATERIALS AND METHODS We performed an institutional review board approved, retrospective chart review to identify the number of vasectomies/vasectomy reversals per month at several large referral centers from January 2001 to July 2011. The rates of these procedures were pooled, correlated with national economic data and analyzed in a multivariate linear regression model. RESULTS A total of 4,599 vasectomies and 1,549 vasectomy reversals were performed at our institutions during the study period. The number of vasectomies per month positively correlated with the unemployment rate (r=0.556, p<0.001) and personal income per capita (r=0.276, p=0.002). The number of reversals per month negatively correlated with the unemployment rate (r=-0.399, p<0.001) and personal income per capita (r=-0.305, p<0.001). Neither vasectomy nor vasectomy reversal frequency significantly correlated with the inflation rate or the S&P 500®. Regression models confirmed that the unemployment rate explained more of the variance in vasectomy/vasectomy reversal frequencies than other indicators. CONCLUSIONS We noted a correlation between the number of vasectomies/vasectomy reversals performed at our institutions and national economic indicators. The strongest association was with the unemployment rate. This points to the importance of financial pressure on family planning decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidit Sharma
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Sherwin Zargaroff
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Kunj R Sheth
- Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Brian V Le
- Department of Urology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - James M Dupree
- Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Jay I Sandlow
- Department of Urology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - A Scott Polackwich
- Department of Urology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Jason C Hedges
- Department of Urology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Eugene F Fuchs
- Department of Urology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Marc Goldstein
- Department of Urology and Institute for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University and Center for Biomedical Research, the Population Council, New York, New York
| | - Robert E Brannigan
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois.
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Peng J, Yuan Y, Zhang Z, Cui W, Song W, Gao B. Microsurgical vasoepididymostomy is an effective treatment for azoospermic patients with epididymal obstruction and prior failure to achieve pregnancy by sperm retrieval with intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Hum Reprod 2013; 29:1-7. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/det385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration for Men With Obstructive Azoospermia: Predictors of Successful Sperm Retrieval. Urology 2013; 82:341-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2013.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2013] [Revised: 04/01/2013] [Accepted: 04/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Miyaoka R, Esteves SC. Predictive factors for sperm retrieval and sperm injection outcomes in obstructive azoospermia: do etiology, retrieval techniques and gamete source play a role? Clinics (Sao Paulo) 2013; 68 Suppl 1:111-9. [PMID: 23503960 PMCID: PMC3583159 DOI: 10.6061/clinics/2013(sup01)12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2012] [Accepted: 04/11/2012] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Obstructive azoospermia is a relatively common male infertility condition. The main etiologies of obstructive azoospermia include congenital, surgical-derived, traumatic and post-infectious cases. Although seminal tract reconstruction is a cost-effective treatment in most cases, this approach may not be feasible or desired in some cases. In such cases, assisted reproduction techniques offer a method for achieving pregnancy, notably via sperm retrieval and intracytoplasmic sperm injection. This process requires several considerations and decisions to be made, including the cause and duration of obstruction, which sperm retrieval technique to use, and whether to use fresh or frozen-thawed sperm. We present a review of obstructive azoospermia and assisted reproduction techniques, highlighting the most relevant aspects of the decision-making process for use in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Miyaoka
- Referral Center for Male Reproduction, ANDROFERT - Andrology & Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
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21
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Baker K, Sabanegh E. Obstructive azoospermia: reconstructive techniques and results. Clinics (Sao Paulo) 2013; 68 Suppl 1:61-73. [PMID: 23503955 PMCID: PMC3583161 DOI: 10.6061/clinics/2013(sup01)07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2012] [Accepted: 03/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Obstructive azoospermia is a common cause of male infertility and can result from infection, congenital anomalies, or iatrogenic injury. Microsurgical vasal reconstruction is a suitable treatment for many cases of obstructive azoospermia, although some couples will require sperm retrieval paired with in-vitro fertilization. The various causes of obstructive azoospermia and recommended treatments will be examined. Microsurgical vasovasostomy and vasoepididymostomy will be discussed in detail. The postoperative patency and pregnancy rates for surgical reconstruction of obstructive azoospermia and the impact of etiology, obstructive interval, sperm granuloma, age, and previous reconstruction on patency and pregnancy will be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Baker
- Center for Male Fertility, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
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22
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Abstract
Obstructive azoospermia secondary to epididymal obstruction can be corrected by microsurgical reconstruction with vasoepididymostomy (VE). Although alternative management such as epididymal or testicular sperm aspiration in conjunction with intracytoplasmic sperm injection is feasible, various studies have established the superior cost-effectiveness of VE as a treatment of choice. Microsurgical VE is considered one of the most technically challenging microsurgeries. Its success rate is highly dependent on the skills and experience of the surgeons. Various techniques have been described in the literature for VE. We have pioneered a technique known as longitudinal intussusception VE (LIVE) in which the epididymal tubule is opened longitudinally to obtain a larger opening to allow its tubular content to pass through the anastomosis. Our preliminary data demonstrated a patency rate of over 90%. This technique has been widely referenced in the recent literature including robotic-assisted microsurgery. The history of the development of different VE approaches, the preoperative evaluation along with the techniques of various VE will be described in this article.
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Schwarzer JU. Vasectomy reversal using a microsurgical three-layer technique: one surgeon’s experience over 18 years with 1300 patients. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 35:706-13. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2012.01270.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Esteves SC, Miyaoka R, Agarwal A. Surgical treatment of male infertility in the era of intracytoplasmic sperm injection - new insights. Clinics (Sao Paulo) 2011; 66:1463-78. [PMID: 21915501 PMCID: PMC3161229 DOI: 10.1590/s1807-59322011000800026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2011] [Revised: 04/15/2011] [Accepted: 04/19/2011] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technology is an evolving area, and several adjuvant procedures have been created to increase a couple's chance of conceiving. For male infertility, the current challenges are to properly accommodate old and new techniques that are both cost-effective and evidence-based. In this context, urologists are expected to diagnose, counsel, provide medical or surgical treatment whenever possible and/or correctly refer male patients for assisted conception. Urologists are sometimes part of a multiprofessional team in an assisted reproduction unit and are responsible for the above-cited tasks as well as the surgical retrieval of sperm from either the epididymides or testicles. We present a comprehensive review of the surgical treatment options for infertile males, including the perioperative planning and prognostic aspects, with an emphasis on the role of microsurgery in the optimization of treatment results. This review also discusses current techniques for sperm retrieval that are used in association with assisted reproductive technology and includes sperm retrieval success rates according to the technique and the type of azoospermia. New insights are provided with regard to each surgical treatment option in view of the availability of assisted conception to overcome male infertility.
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Abstract
Vasectomy is an elective surgical sterilization procedure for men that is intended to obstruct or remove a portion of both vas deferens, thereby preventing sperm from moving from the testes to the ejaculatory ducts. Although intended for permanent sterilization, vasectomy can be reversed in most men seeking to restore their fertility due to a change in marital status or reproductive goals. The purpose of this document is to provided a synopsis of the latest techniques used in vasectomy and reversal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranjith Ramasamy
- Department of Urology, Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, USA
| | - Peter N. Schlegel
- Department of Urology, Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, USA
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