1
|
Lawton S, Hoover A, James G, Snook S, Quiroz DST, Labrecque M. Risk of post-vasectomy infections in 133,044 vasectomies from four international vasectomy practices. Int Braz J Urol 2023; 49:490-500. [PMID: 37267614 PMCID: PMC10482444 DOI: 10.1590/s1677-5538.ibju.2023.0143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To estimate the risk of post-vasectomy infections in various settings and across various surgical techniques and sanitization practices. PATIENTS AND METHODS Retrospective review of the records of 133,044 vasectomized patients from four large practices/network of practices using the no-scalpel vasectomy (NSV) technique in Canada (2011-2021), Colombia (2015-2020), New Zealand (2018-2021), and the United Kingdom (2006-2019). We defined infection as any mention in medical records of any antibiotics prescribed for a genital or urinary condition following vasectomy. RESULTS Post-vasectomy infection risks were 0.8% (219 infections/26,809 procedures), 2.1% (390/18,490), 1.0% (100/10,506), and 1.3% (1,007/77,239) in Canada, Colombia, New Zealand, and the UK, respectively. Audit period comparison suggests a limited effect on the risk of infection of excising a short vas segment, applying topical antibiotic on scrotal opening, wearing a surgical mask in Canada, type of skin disinfectant, and use of non-sterile gloves in New Zealand. Risk of infection was lower in Colombia when mucosal cautery and fascial interposition [FI] were used for vas occlusion compared to ligation, excision, and FI (0.9% vs. 2.1%, p<0.00001). Low level of infection certainty in 56% to 60% of patients who received antibiotics indicates that the true risk might be overestimated. Lack of information in medical records and patients not consulting their vasectomy providers might have led to underestimation of the risk. CONCLUSION Risk of infection after vasectomy is low, about 1%, among international high-volume vasectomy practices performing NSV and various occlusion techniques. Apart from vasectomy occlusion technique, no other factor modified the risk of post-vasectomy infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Lawton
- Emory UniversityRollins School of Public HealthAtlantaUnited StatesEmory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, United States;
| | - Alison Hoover
- Emory UniversitySchool of MedicineAtlantaUnited StatesEmory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, United States
| | - Gareth James
- Primary CareUnited KingdomAssociation of Surgeons in Primary Care, United Kingdom, UK
| | - Simon Snook
- SNIP Vasectomy ClinicsNew ZealandSNIP Vasectomy Clinics, New Zealand
| | | | - Michel Labrecque
- Laval UniversityDepartment of Family and Emergency MedicineQuebec CityCanadaDepartment of Family and Emergency Medicine, Laval University, Quebec City, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Gazendam BAT, Monakali OH, Landman N, Koeppel KN. A new approach to the vasectomy of African lions (Panthera leo). J S Afr Vet Assoc 2023; 94:54-58. [PMID: 37358321 DOI: doi.org/10.36303/jsava.541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Four healthy, male, adult African lions (Panthera leo) were presented for vasectomy, which was performed for management purposes. After immobilisation with medetomidine and tiletamine/zolazepam the lions were intubated and anaesthesia was maintained with isoflurane. In each animal, the ductus deferens was located bilaterally, dissected and transected. Following ligation, a technique commonly used in human medicine called fascial interposition, was used to decrease the chances of recanalisation. Using this technique, the prostatic end of the ductus was fixated outside the tunica vaginalis, while the testicular end remained within the tunic. Histopathology was performed in all cases to confirm the presence of the ductus deferens tissue. During the follow up, twelve months later, no complications were noticed by the owner and no new litters have been born since.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B A T Gazendam
- Department of Production Animal Science and Centre for Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - O H Monakali
- Pathology Section, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - N Landman
- Witbank Veterinary Hospital, South Africa
| | - K N Koeppel
- Department of Production Animal Science and Centre for Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Agarwal A, Gupta S, Sharma RK, Finelli R, Kuroda S, Vij SC, Boitrelle F, Kavoussi P, Rambhatla A, Saleh R, Chung E, Mostafa T, Zini A, Ko E, Parekh N, Martinez M, Arafa M, Tadros N, de la Rosette J, Le TV, Rajmil O, Kandil H, Blecher G, Liguori G, Caroppo E, Ho CCK, Altman A, Bajic P, Goldfarb D, Gill B, Zylbersztejn DS, Molina JMC, Gava MM, Cardoso JPG, Kosgi R, Çeker G, Zilaitiene B, Pescatori E, Borges E, Duarsa GWK, Pinggera GM, Busetto GM, Balercia G, Franco G, Çalik G, Sallam HN, Park HJ, Ramsay J, Alvarez J, Khalafalla K, Bowa K, Hakim L, Simopoulou M, Rodriguez MG, Sabbaghian M, Elbardisi H, Timpano M, Altan M, Elkhouly M, Al-Marhoon MS, Sadighi Gilani MA, Soebadi MA, Nasr-Esfahani MH, Garrido N, Vogiatzi P, Birowo P, Patel P, Javed Q, Ambar RF, Adriansjah R, AlSaid S, Micic S, Lewis SE, Mutambirwa S, Fukuhara S, Parekattil S, Ahn ST, Jindal S, Takeshima T, Puigvert A, Amano T, Barrett T, Toprak T, Malhotra V, Atmoko W, Yumura Y, Morimoto Y, Lima TFN, Kunz Y, Kato Y, Umemoto Y, Colpi GM, Durairajanayagam D, Shah R. Post-Vasectomy Semen Analysis: Optimizing Laboratory Procedures and Test Interpretation through a Clinical Audit and Global Survey of Practices. World J Mens Health 2022; 40:425-441. [PMID: 35021311 PMCID: PMC9253792 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.210191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The success of vasectomy is determined by the outcome of a post-vasectomy semen analysis (PVSA). This article describes a step-by-step procedure to perform PVSA accurately, report data from patients who underwent post vasectomy semen analysis between 2015 and 2021 experience, along with results from an international online survey on clinical practice. MATERIALS AND METHODS We present a detailed step-by-step protocol for performing and interpretating PVSA testing, along with recommendations for proficiency testing, competency assessment for performing PVSA, and clinical and laboratory scenarios. Moreover, we conducted an analysis of 1,114 PVSA performed at the Cleveland Clinic's Andrology Laboratory and an online survey to understand clinician responses to the PVSA results in various countries. RESULTS Results from our clinical experience showed that 92.1% of patients passed PVSA, with 7.9% being further tested. A total of 78 experts from 19 countries participated in the survey, and the majority reported to use time from vasectomy rather than the number of ejaculations as criterion to request PVSA. A high percentage of responders reported permitting unprotected intercourse only if PVSA samples show azoospermia while, in the presence of few non-motile sperm, the majority of responders suggested using alternative contraception, followed by another PVSA. In the presence of motile sperm, the majority of participants asked for further PVSA testing. Repeat vasectomy was mainly recommended if motile sperm were observed after multiple PVSA's. A large percentage reported to recommend a second PVSA due to the possibility of legal actions. CONCLUSIONS Our results highlighted varying clinical practices around the globe, with controversy over the significance of non-motile sperm in the PVSA sample. Our data suggest that less stringent AUA guidelines would help improve test compliance. A large longitudinal multi-center study would clarify various doubts related to timing and interpretation of PVSA and would also help us to understand, and perhaps predict, recanalization and the potential for future failure of a vasectomy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Sajal Gupta
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Rakesh K Sharma
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Renata Finelli
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | | | - Sarah C Vij
- Department of Urology, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Florence Boitrelle
- Reproductive Biology, Fertility Preservation, Andrology, CECOS, Poissy Hospital, Poissy, France
- Paris Saclay University, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Parviz Kavoussi
- Austin Fertility and Reproductive Medicine/Westlake IVF, Department of Urology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | | | - Ramadan Saleh
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Eric Chung
- Department of Urology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Taymour Mostafa
- Department of Andrology, Sexology & STIs, Faculty of Medicina, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Armand Zini
- Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Edmund Ko
- Department of Urology, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Neel Parekh
- Department of Urology, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Marlon Martinez
- Section of Urology, University of Santo Tomas Hospital, Manila, Philippines
| | - Mohamed Arafa
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Urology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medical-Qatar, Doha, Qatar
| | - Nicholas Tadros
- Division of Urology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Jean de la Rosette
- Department of Urology, Medipol Mega University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tan V Le
- Department of Andrology, Binh Dan Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Osvaldo Rajmil
- Department of Andrology, Fundacio Puigvert, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Gideon Blecher
- Department of Surgery, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | | | - Christopher C K Ho
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
| | - Andrew Altman
- Department of Urology, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Petar Bajic
- Department of Urology, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - David Goldfarb
- Department of Urology, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Bradley Gill
- Department of Urology, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | | | | | - Marcello M Gava
- Sexual and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Urology, Faculdade de Medicina do ABC, Santo André, Brazil
- Andrology Group at Ideia Fertil Institute of Human Reproduction, Santo André, Brazil
| | - Joao Paulo Greco Cardoso
- Divisao de Urologia, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Universidade de Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Raghavender Kosgi
- Department of Urology and Andrology, AIG Hospitals, Gachibowli, Hyderabad, India
| | - Gökhan Çeker
- Department of Urology, Samsun Vezirköprü State Hospital, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Birute Zilaitiene
- Institute of Endocrinology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Edoardo Pescatori
- Andrology and Reproductive Medicine Unit, Gynepro Medical, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Gede Wirya Kusuma Duarsa
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Sanglah General Academic Hospital, Udayana University, Denpasar, Indonesia
| | | | - Gian Maria Busetto
- Department of Urology and Organ Transplantation, University of Foggia, Ospedali Riuniti of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Giorgio Franco
- UOC Urologia, Department Materno-Infantile e Scienze Urologiche, AOU Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Gökhan Çalik
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hassan N Sallam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Alexandria University Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Hyun Jun Park
- Department of Urology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, Korea
- Medical Research Institute of Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | | | | | | | - Kasonde Bowa
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Lusaka, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Lukman Hakim
- Department of Urology, Universitas Airlangga/Rumah Sakit Universitas Airlangga Teaching Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Department of Experimental Physiology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Marcelo Gabriel Rodriguez
- Departamento Docencia e Investigación, Hospital Militar Campo de Mayo, Universidad Barcelo, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Marjan Sabbaghian
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Haitham Elbardisi
- Department of Urology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medical-Qatar, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Mesut Altan
- Department of Urology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | | | - Mohammad Ali Sadighi Gilani
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ayodhia Soebadi
- Department of Urology, Universitas Airlangga/Rumah Sakit Universitas Airlangga Teaching Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Mohammad Hossein Nasr-Esfahani
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Nicolas Garrido
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Paraskevi Vogiatzi
- Andromed Health & Reproduction, Fertility Diagnostics Laboratory, Maroussi, Greece
| | - Ponco Birowo
- Department of Urology, Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Premal Patel
- Section of Urology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Qaisar Javed
- Department of Urology, Ahalia Hospital, Hamdan Street Branch, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Rafael F Ambar
- Andrology Group at Ideia Fertil Institute of Human Reproduction, Santo André, Brazil
- Department of Urology, Centro Universitario em Saude do ABC, Santo André, Brazil
| | - Ricky Adriansjah
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Hasan Sadikin General Hospital, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Sami AlSaid
- Department of Urology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sava Micic
- Department of Andrology, Uromedica Polyclinic, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Sheena E Lewis
- Examenlab Ltd., Weavers Court Business Park, Linfield Road, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Shingai Mutambirwa
- Division of Urology, Safeko Makgatho Health Scienses University and Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Shinichiro Fukuhara
- Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Sijo Parekattil
- Avant Concierge Urology & University of Central Florida, Winter Garden, FL, USA
| | - Sun Tae Ahn
- Department of Urology, Korea University Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sunil Jindal
- Department of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Jindal Hospital, Meerut, India
| | - Teppei Takeshima
- Department of Urology, Reproduction Center, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Ana Puigvert
- Fundació Puigvert, Hospital de la Santa Cruz y San Pablo, Universidad Autonoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Toshiyasu Amano
- Department of Urology, Nagano Red Cross Hospital, Nagano, Japan
| | | | - Tuncay Toprak
- Department of Urology, University of Health Sciences, Fatih Sultan Mehmet Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Vineet Malhotra
- Department of Andrology and Urology, Diyos Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Widi Atmoko
- Department of Urology, Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Yasushi Yumura
- Department of Urology, Reproduction Center, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | | | | | - Yannic Kunz
- Department of Urology, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Yuki Kato
- Department of Integrative Cancer Therapy and Urology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Yukihiro Umemoto
- Department of Nephro-Urology, Nagoya City West Medical Center, Nagoya, Japan
| | | | - Damayanthi Durairajanayagam
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Rupin Shah
- Division of Andrology, Department of Urology, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, India
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zini A, Grantmyre J, Chow V, Chan P. UPDATE - 2022 Canadian Urological Association best practice report: Vasectomy. Can Urol Assoc J 2022; 16:E231-E236. [PMID: 35544354 PMCID: PMC9119596 DOI: 10.5489/cuaj.7860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Armand Zini
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - John Grantmyre
- Department of Urology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Victor Chow
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Peter Chan
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Yang F, Li J, Dong L, Tan K, Huang X, Zhang P, Liu X, Chang D, Yu X. Review of Vasectomy Complications and Safety Concerns. World J Mens Health 2021; 39:406-418. [PMID: 32777870 PMCID: PMC8255399 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.200073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Vasectomy is a simple, safe, effective, and economical method used worldwide for long-term male contraception. As a surgical operation, it has short-term and long-term complications such as hematoma formation, infection, sterilization failure, sperm granulomas, short-term postoperative pain (nodal pain, scrotal pain, and ejaculation pain), and chronic pain syndrome. Whether it increases the risk of autoimmune disease, cardiovascular disease, testicular cancer, or prostate cancer is still controversial. Changes in plasma concentrations of luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and testosterone after vasectomy have also been studied, as well as the relation between vasectomy and sexual function. Sperm quality decreases very slowly after vasectomy, and vasovasostomy and intracytoplasmic sperm injection could help a couple achieve a pregnancy if they change their minds at any point. We include a follow-up strategy and suggestions for follow-up care at the end of this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fang Yang
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Junjun Li
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Liang Dong
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Kun Tan
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaopeng Huang
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Peihai Zhang
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaozhang Liu
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Degui Chang
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xujun Yu
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Miranda Claro SJ, Vargas Laverde J, Mariño Samper E, Ibáñez Pinilla M, Torres Quiroz DS, Labrecque M. Risk of vasectomy failure by ligation and excision with fascial interposition: A prospective descriptive study. Contraception 2020; 101:342-349. [PMID: 32061567 DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2020.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 01/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the occlusive failure risk of ligation and excision with fascial interposition vasectomy technique. There are doubts about the effectiveness of this technique largely used in Asia and Latin America. STUDY DESIGN We conducted a prospective longitudinal observational descriptive study among men who underwent a vasectomy performed under local anesthesia in a clinic specializing in sexual and reproductive health services in Bogotá, Colombia. Three urologists used the Percutaneous No-Scalpel Vasectomy technique to isolate the vas deferens. They then ligated the vas, excised a 1 cm segment between ligations, and ligated the fascia on the prostatic end to cover the testicular end. We requested all patients to submit a semen sample three months after the vasectomy. We defined probable and confirmed vasectomy failure as 1-4.9 million sperm/ml and 5 million sperm/ml or more or any number of motile sperm observed on the last semen sample available, respectively. RESULTS Among 1149 participants, 581 (51%) had at least one post-vasectomy semen analysis. The overall failure risk was 5.2% (30/581; 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.6%-7.3%) with probable and confirmed failure risk of 1.9% (11/581; 95% CI 1.1%-3.4%) and 3.3% (19/581; 95% CI 2.1%-5.1%), respectively. Older men and one urologist had statistically significant higher risk of overall failure. CONCLUSION Our study confirmed that the ligation and excision with fascial interposition vasectomy technique is associated with an unacceptable risk of failure. IMPLICATIONS Surgeons who use the ligation and excision with fascial interposition vasectomy technique and countries with large vasectomy programs in Asia and Latin America that still recommend this technique should consider adopting alternatives to reduce the failure risk to below 1% as recommended by the American Urological Association.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jonathan Vargas Laverde
- Universidad El Bosque, Avenida Kr. 9 No. 131 A - 02, Bogotá, Colombia; Profamilia, Teusaquillo Calle 34 No. 14 - 52, Bogotá, Colombia.
| | | | - Milcíades Ibáñez Pinilla
- Universidad El Bosque, Avenida Kr. 9 No. 131 A - 02, Bogotá, Colombia; Universidad del Rosario, Hospital Universitario Mayor-Méderi, Bogotá, Colombia.
| | | | - Michel Labrecque
- CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Centre, Population Health and Optimal Health Practices, 1050 Chemin Sainte-Foy, local K0-03, Québec (Qc) G1S 4L8, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Labrecque M. Are evidence-based vasectomy surgical techniques performed in low-resource countries? Gates Open Res 2019; 3:1462. [PMID: 31259316 PMCID: PMC6584738 DOI: 10.12688/gatesopenres.12986.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Research evidence published 10 to 15 years ago has shown that the type of vasectomy surgical technique performed can influence the effectiveness and the safety of the procedure. The objective of this study was to determine if evidence-based vasectomy surgical techniques are integrated in the vasectomy programs of selected low-resource countries. Methods: The surgical techniques recommended to perform the two steps of the vasectomy procedure (isolation/exposition and occlusion of the vas deferens) were extracted from current evidence-based clinical practice guidelines. Documents describing male sterilisation standards and practice from Kenya, Rwanda, India, Nepal, Mexico, Honduras, Colombia and Haiti were reviewed to assess adequacy with international guideline recommendations. Results: Best recommended techniques are 1) a minimally invasive technique including the no-scalpel technique (known as the no-scalpel vasectomy (NSV)) to isolate and expose the vas deferens, and 2) cautery of the mucosa of the vas preferably combined with interposition of the fascia (FI) to occlude the vas deferens. The NSV is largely adopted and performed to isolate the vas in selected low-resources countries. Ligation and excision (LE) of a small segment of the vas deferens combined with FI is the most common vas occlusion technique mentioned in the country standards. Cautery as recommended in the guidelines is seldom used in selected countries. Conclusions: Effective and adapted vasectomy vas occlusion techniques are available, but are still underused in many low-resource countries. Providing the most effective vasectomy surgical techniques increases users' confidence and satisfaction regarding male sterilization and may lead to higher acceptability and uptake.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michel Labrecque
- CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Centre, Population Health and Optimal Health Practices, 1050 Chemin Sainte-Foy, local K0-03, Quebec City, Quebec, G1S 4L8, Canada
- Department of Family and Emergency Medicine, Laval University, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Labrecque M. Are evidence-based vasectomy surgical techniques performed in low-resource countries? Gates Open Res 2019; 3:1462. [PMID: 31259316 PMCID: PMC6584738 DOI: 10.12688/gatesopenres.12986.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 07/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Research evidence published 10 to 15 years ago has shown that the type of vasectomy surgical technique performed can influence the effectiveness and the safety of the procedure. The objective of this study was to determine if evidence-based vasectomy surgical techniques are integrated in the vasectomy programs of selected low-resource countries. Methods: The surgical techniques recommended to perform the two steps of the vasectomy procedure (isolation/exposition and occlusion of the vas deferens) were extracted from current evidence-based clinical practice guidelines. Documents describing male sterilisation standards and practice from Kenya, Rwanda, India, Nepal, Mexico, Honduras, Colombia and Haiti were reviewed to assess adequacy with international guideline recommendations. Results: Best recommended techniques are 1) a minimally invasive technique including the no-scalpel technique (known as the no-scalpel vasectomy (NSV)) to isolate and expose the vas deferens, and 2) cautery of the mucosa of the vas preferably combined with interposition of the fascia (FI) to occlude the vas deferens. The NSV is largely adopted and performed to isolate the vas in selected low-resources countries. Ligation and excision (LE) of a small segment of the vas deferens combined with FI is the most common vas occlusion technique mentioned in the country standards. Cautery as recommended in the guidelines is seldom used in selected countries. Conclusions: Effective and adapted vasectomy vas occlusion techniques are available, but are still underused in many low-resource countries. Providing the most effective vasectomy surgical techniques increases users' confidence and satisfaction regarding male sterilization and may lead to higher acceptability and uptake.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michel Labrecque
- CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Centre, Population Health and Optimal Health Practices, 1050 Chemin Sainte-Foy, local K0-03, Quebec City, Quebec, G1S 4L8, Canada
- Department of Family and Emergency Medicine, Laval University, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Vasectomy with vessel sealing device: comparison of different diameters. Int J Impot Res 2018; 31:20-24. [PMID: 30154455 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-018-0066-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Revised: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Vasectomy is a popular and effective male surgical contraceptive method. Different techniques have been proposed to reduce failure rates and complications. In this study, we sought to compare vas deferens occlusion rates using both standard occlusion techniques and LigaSure (LSVS) for vasectomy. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of nine patients underwent open radical retropubic prostatectomy at our institution. During the procedure, a total of 125 fresh vas deferens samples were obtained and divided into four groups as follows: Group 1: ligation (n = 22), Group 2; ligation and electrocauterization (n = 18), Group 3; 5 mm LSVS (n = 44), Group 4; 10 mm LSVS (n = 41). All specimens were harvested during surgery and subsequent histopathological assessments were performed to assess the luminal status of the vas deferens. RESULTS Histopathological evaluation revealed that the majority of vas lumens with LSVS (79.5% of Group 3 and 89.4% of Group 4) were totally occluded. With standard techniques, however, the majority of vas lumens (86.4 and 77.8% of Groups 1 and 2, respectively) maintained a tiny patency. CONCLUSIONS On histopathological review, the application of LSVS resulted in better occlusion rates, compared to standard ligation methods. These findings suggest a higher occlusive role for LSVS for vasectomy. Further clinical studies are needed to confirm the clinical efficacy and safety of this technique.
Collapse
|
10
|
Ekanayake-Alper DK, Wilson SR, Scholz JA. Retrospective Review of Surgical Outcomes and Pair-housing Success in Vasectomized Rhesus Macaques ( Macaca mulatta). Comp Med 2018; 68:168-176. [PMID: 29663943 PMCID: PMC5897974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2017] [Revised: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 07/01/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Providing social housing for adult male macaques can be challenging. One successful strategy for long-term social housing of adult male macaques is to pair them with adult females; however, unwanted breeding must be prevented by sterilization of the male or female. Vasectomy is a simple, highly effective, and minimally invasive method of contraception that is used at our institution to facilitate social housing. We performed a retrospective review to analyze the surgical outcomes and rate of postoperative complications after vasectomy of adult rhesus macaques at our research facility. In addition, we evaluated the success rate of pairing vasectomized macaques with female partners. Over 10 y, 16 macaques were vasectomized, of which 5 developed postoperative complications such as orchitis, epididymitis, or surgical site infection. These complications resolved completely and without incident after antibiotic and analgesic therapy; an additional male had postoperative incisional swelling that resolved quickly after NSAID treatment. This complication rate is consistent with that in humans by surgeons who perform open vasectomies relatively infrequently. In addition, 5 of the vasectomized macaques (31%) developed sperm granulomas, which are a common and generally benign complication in humans and have been reported to develop in 40% of macaques after vasectomy. Successful pair housing with a female partner was achieved for 13 of 16 (81%) of the vasectomized macaques. We conclude that surgical vasectomy is a safe and simple procedure that can be used as a highly effective method to facilitate social housing of adult male rhesus macaques in research facilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dilrukshi K Ekanayake-Alper
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; Columbia Center for Transplant Immunology and Institute of Comparative Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Steven R Wilson
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Jodi A Scholz
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA; Department of Comparative Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA.,
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
<p>Vasectomy is a safe and effective method of birth control. Although it is a simple elective procedure, vasectomy is associated with potential minor and major complications. The early failure rate of vasectomy (presence of motile sperm in the ejaculate at 3‒6 months post-vasectomy) is in the range of 0.3‒9% and the late failure rate is in the range of 0.04–0.08%. The no-scalpel vasectomy technique is associated with a lower risk of early postoperative complications and the use of cautery or fascial interposition will reduce the risk of contraceptive failure. As such, detailed preoperative counselling and careful assessment of the post-vasectomy ejaculate (for presence of sperm) is imperative. Failure to provide and document adequate information and counselling to patients may lead to litigation.</p><p>The focus of this guideline is the management of men presenting for vasectomy. Specifically, the topics covered include: preoperative counselling, vasectomy efficacy and complications, technical aspects of vasectomy, post-vasectomy semen testing, and interpretation-communication of post-vasectomy semen results. By performing an extensive literature review, we have generated an evidence-based consensus on the management of these men. The objective of this guideline is to help standardize the treatment of men presenting for vasectomy.</p>
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Armand Zini
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - John Grantmyre
- Department of Urology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Peter Chan
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Lowe G. Optimizing outcomes in vasectomy: how to ensure sterility and prevent complications. Transl Androl Urol 2016; 5:176-80. [PMID: 27141443 PMCID: PMC4837312 DOI: 10.21037/tau.2016.03.04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Vasectomy provides a long-term effective sterilization for men and is performed on nearly 500,000 men annually in the United States. Improvements in technique have led to a decreased failure rate and fewer complications, although significant variations in technique exist. Use of cautery occlusion with or without fascial interposition appears to have the least failures. A no-scalpel approach lowers risk of hematoma formation, infection and bleeding post-operatively. A patient can be considered sterile when azoospermia is achieved or the semen analysis shows less than 100,000 non-motile sperm per milliliter. Incorporating these principles may allow the physician to optimize outcomes in vasectomy.
Collapse
|
13
|
Altok M, Şahin AF, Divrik RT, Yildirim U, Zorlu F. Prospective comparison of ligation and bipolar cautery technique in non-scalpel vasectomy. Int Braz J Urol 2016; 41:1172-7. [PMID: 26742977 PMCID: PMC4756945 DOI: 10.1590/s1677-5538.ibju.2014.0356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2014] [Accepted: 01/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There is no trial comparing bipolar cautery and ligation for occlusion of vas in non-scalpel vasectomy. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of these vasectomy occlusion techniques. MATERIALS AND METHODS Between January 2002-June 2009, patients were allocated in alternate order. We recruited 100 cases in cautery group and 100 cases in ligation group. Non-scalpel approach was performed during vasectomy and fascial interposition was performed in all cases. First semen analysis was done 3 months after vasectomy. Vasectomy success was defined as azoospermia or non-motile sperm lower than 100.000/mL. RESULTS Four patients from the cautery group were switched to the ligation group due to technical problem of cautery device. Thus, data of 96 patients as cautery group and 104 patients as ligation group were evaluated. After vasectomy, semen analyses were obtained from 59 of 96 (61.5%) patients in cautery group and to 66 of 104 (63.5%) patients in ligation group. There was no statistical significant difference between the two groups in terms of the success of vasectomy (p=0.863). CONCLUSION Although bipolar cautery technique is safe, effective and feasible in non-scalpel vasectomy, it has no superiority to ligation. There was no statistically significant difference in terms of the success and complications between the two groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muammer Altok
- Department of Urology, Suleyman Demirel University, Faculty of Medicine, Isparta, Turkey
| | | | - Rauf Taner Divrik
- Department of Urology, Şifa University, Faculty of Medicine, Izmir, Turkey
| | | | - Ferruh Zorlu
- Department of Urology, M.H. Tepecik Research and Education Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Canadian Contraception Consensus Chapter 6 Permanent Contraception. JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY CANADA 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/s1701-2163(16)39377-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
15
|
|
16
|
|
17
|
Cook LA, Van Vliet HAAM, Lopez LM, Pun A, Gallo MF. Vasectomy occlusion techniques for male sterilization. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2014; 2014:CD003991. [PMID: 24683020 PMCID: PMC7173716 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd003991.pub4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vasectomy is an increasingly popular and effective family planning method. A variety of vasectomy techniques are used worldwide, including vas occlusion techniques (excision and ligation, thermal or electrocautery, and mechanical and chemical occlusion methods), as well as vasectomy with vas irrigation or with fascial interposition. Vasectomy guidelines largely rely on information from observational studies. Ideally, the choice of vasectomy techniques should be based on the evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). OBJECTIVES The objective of this review was to compare the effectiveness, safety, acceptability and costs of vasectomy techniques for male sterilization. SEARCH METHODS In February 2014, we updated the searches of CENTRAL, MEDLINE, POPLINE and LILACS. We looked for recent clinical trials in ClinicalTrials.gov and the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. Previous searches also included EMBASE. For the initial review, we searched the reference lists of relevant articles and book chapters. SELECTION CRITERIA We included RCTs comparing vasectomy techniques, which could include suture ligature, surgical clips, thermal or electrocautery, chemical occlusion, vas plugs, vas excision, open-ended vas, fascial interposition, or vas irrigation. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We assessed all titles and abstracts located in the literature searches. Two reviewers independently extracted data from articles identified for inclusion. Outcome measures include contraceptive efficacy, safety, discontinuation, and acceptability. Peto odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used for dichotomous outcomes, such as azoospermia. The mean difference (MD) was used for the continuous variable of operating time. MAIN RESULTS Six studies met the inclusion criteria. One trial compared vas occlusion with clips versus a conventional vasectomy technique. No difference was found in failure to reach azoospermia (no sperm detected). Three trials examined vasectomy with vas irrigation. Two studies looked at irrigation with water versus no irrigation, while one examined irrigation with water versus the spermicide euflavine. None found a difference between the groups for time to azoospermia. However, one trial reported that the median number of ejaculations to azoospermia was lower in the euflavine group compared to the water irrigation group. One high-quality trial compared vasectomy with fascial interposition versus vasectomy without fascial interposition. The fascial interposition group was less likely to have vasectomy failure. Fascial interposition had more surgical difficulties, but the groups were similar in side effects. Lastly, one trial found that an intra-vas was less likely to produce azoospermia than was no-scalpel vasectomy. More men were satisfied with the intra-vas device, however. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS For vas occlusion with clips or vasectomy with vas irrigation, no conclusions can be made as those studies were of low quality and underpowered. Fascial interposition reduced vasectomy failure. An intra-vas device was less effective in reducing sperm count than was no-scalpel vasectomy. RCTs examining other vasectomy techniques were not available. More and better quality research is needed to examine vasectomy techniques.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lynley A Cook
- University of OtagoPublic Health and General PracticeBox 4345ChristchurchCanterburyNew Zealand8140
| | - Huib AAM Van Vliet
- Catharina Hospital EindhovenDepartment of Gynaecology, Division of Reproductive MedicineMichelangelolaan 2EindhovenNetherlandsNL 5623 EJ
| | - Laureen M Lopez
- FHI 360Clinical Sciences359 Blackwell St, Suite 200DurhamNorth CarolinaUSA27701
| | - Asha Pun
- UN House PulchowkHealth and Nutrition SectionP.O. Box 1187KathmanduNepal
| | - Maria F Gallo
- The Ohio State UniversityDivision of EpidemiologyRoom 324 Cunz Hall1841 Neil AvenueColumbusOhioUSA43210‐1351
| | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
|
19
|
Duplisea J, Whelan T. Compliance with semen analysis. J Urol 2013; 189:2248-51. [PMID: 23357212 DOI: 10.1016/j.juro.2013.01.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2013] [Accepted: 01/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE We calculated the compliance rate and determined which population of men would be more or less likely to be compliant with semen analysis followup based on demographic information and complication rates. MATERIALS AND METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the records of 946 consecutive patients who underwent vasectomy at an ambulatory clinic, as performed by 1 urologist. Standard followup consisted of a telephone call or prebooked appointment 2 months after vasectomy and 2 semen analyses 4 months after vasectomy. RESULTS Average ± SD patient age was 33.6 ± 5.4 years. Of the 946 study patients 47.9% did not submit a negative semen sample, 15.7% submitted 1 and 36.4% submitted the required 2 negative samples to confirm successful vasectomy according to the sampling protocol. Mean time to semen analysis was 4.53 ± 2.14 months. Complications included infection in 1.9% of cases, hematoma in 1% and sperm granuloma in 0.5%. Men 34 years or younger, men with 3 or more children and men without complications were more likely to be noncompliant with semen analysis. CONCLUSIONS The number of men who provided samples for semen analysis in this study was low, although they were given written and verbal reminders. This poor patient compliance is similar to that in previous studies. We identified a subset of patients with poor compliance, which may allow urologists to target preprocedure counseling more appropriately.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jon Duplisea
- Department of Urology, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Dohle G, Diemer T, Kopa Z, Krausz C, Giwercman A, Jungwirth A. European Association of Urology guidelines on vasectomy. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.acuroe.2012.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
|
21
|
Dohle G, Diemer T, Kopa Z, Krausz C, Giwercman A, Jungwirth A. [European Association of Urology guidelines on vasectomy]. Actas Urol Esp 2012; 36:276-81. [PMID: 22521918 DOI: 10.1016/j.acuro.2012.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2012] [Accepted: 01/25/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The European Association of Urology presents its guidelines for vasectomy. Vasectomy is highly effective, but problems can arise that are related to insufficient preoperative patient information, the surgical procedure, and postoperative follow-up. OBJECTIVE These guidelines aim to provide information and recommendations for physicians who perform vasectomies and to promote the provision of adequate information to the patient before the operation to prevent unrealistic expectations and legal procedures. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION An extensive review of the literature was carried out using Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews from 1980 to 2010. The focus was on randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses of RCTs (level 1 evidence) and on well-designed studies without randomisation (level 2 and 3 evidence). A total of 113 unique records were identified for consideration. Non-English language publications were excluded as well as studies published as abstracts only or reports from meetings. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS The guidelines discuss indications and contraindications for vasectomy, preoperative patient information and counselling, surgical techniques, postoperative care and subsequent semen analysis, and complications and late consequences. CONCLUSIONS Vasectomy is intended to be a permanent form of contraception. There are no absolute contraindications for vasectomy. Relative contraindications may be the absence of children, age <30 yr, severe illness, no current relationship, and scrotal pain. Preoperative counselling should include alternative methods of contraception, complication and failure rates, and the need for postoperative semen analysis. Informed consent should be obtained before the operation. Although the use of mucosal cautery and fascial interposition have been shown to reduce early failure compared to simple ligation and excision of a small vas segment, no robust data show that a particular vasectomy technique is superior in terms of prevention of late recanalisation and spontaneous pregnancy after vasectomy. After semen analysis, clearance can be given in case of documented azoospermia and in case of rare nonmotile spermatozoa in the ejaculate at least 3 mo after the procedure.
Collapse
|
22
|
Dohle GR, Diemer T, Kopa Z, Krausz C, Giwercman A, Jungwirth A. European Association of Urology guidelines on vasectomy. Eur Urol 2011; 61:159-63. [PMID: 22033172 DOI: 10.1016/j.eururo.2011.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2011] [Accepted: 10/06/2011] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The European Association of Urology presents its guidelines for vasectomy. Vasectomy is highly effective, but problems can arise that are related to insufficient preoperative patient information, the surgical procedure, and postoperative follow-up. OBJECTIVE These guidelines aim to provide information and recommendations for physicians who perform vasectomies and to promote the provision of adequate information to the patient before the operation to prevent unrealistic expectations and legal procedures. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION An extensive review of the literature was carried out using Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews from 1980 to 2010. The focus was on randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses of RCTs (level 1 evidence) and on well-designed studies without randomisation (level 2 and 3 evidence). A total of 113 unique records were identified for consideration. Non-English language publications were excluded as well as studies published as abstracts only or reports from meetings. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS The guidelines discuss indications and contraindications for vasectomy, preoperative patient information and counselling, surgical techniques, postoperative care and subsequent semen analysis, and complications and late consequences. CONCLUSIONS Vasectomy is intended to be a permanent form of contraception. There are no absolute contraindications for vasectomy. Relative contraindications may be the absence of children, age <30 yr, severe illness, no current relationship, and scrotal pain. Preoperative counselling should include alternative methods of contraception, complication and failure rates, and the need for postoperative semen analysis. Informed consent should be obtained before the operation. Although the use of mucosal cautery and fascial interposition have been shown to reduce early failure compared to simple ligation and excision of a small vas segment, no robust data show that a particular vasectomy technique is superior in terms of prevention of late recanalisation and spontaneous pregnancy after vasectomy. After semen analysis, clearance can be given in case of documented azoospermia and in case of rare nonmotile spermatozoa in the ejaculate at least 3 mo after the procedure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gert R Dohle
- Department of Urology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Affiliation(s)
- Armand Zini
- Associate Professor, Division of Urology, McGill University, Montréal, QC
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Singh D, Dasila NS, Vasudeva P, Dalela D, Sankhwar S, Goel A, Singh V, Singh A, Jain A, Singh BP, Ahmed N. Intraoperative Distal Vasal Flushing—Does It Improve the Rate of Early Azoospermia Following No-scalpel Vasectomy? A Prospective, Randomized, Controlled Study. Urology 2010; 76:341-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2010.01.091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2009] [Revised: 12/26/2009] [Accepted: 01/07/2010] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
|
25
|
Michielsen D, Beerthuizen R. State-of-the art of non-hormonal methods of contraception: VI. Male sterilisation. EUR J CONTRACEP REPR 2010; 15:136-49. [DOI: 10.3109/13625181003682714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
|
26
|
Abstract
The effectiveness of various vasectomy techniques is reviewed, with a focus on methods used for vas occlusion. Spontaneous recanalization of the vas is more common than generally recognized and is often transient. Simple ligation and excision has an unacceptably high risk for failure. Techniques that include cautery seem to have a lower risk for failure than techniques that do not include cautery. There is insufficient evidence to recommend a particular standardized cautery technique, but adding fascial interposition to cautery seems to be associated with the lowest risk for failure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David C Sokal
- Behavioral and Biomedical Research Department, Family Health International, PO Box 13950, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
|
28
|
|
29
|
Kotwal S, Kotwal S, Sundaram SK, Rangaiah CS, Agrawal V, Browning AJ. Does the type of suture material used for ligation of the vas deferens affect vasectomy success? EUR J CONTRACEP REPR 2009; 13:25-30. [DOI: 10.1080/13625180801899079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
|
30
|
Steward B, Hays M, Sokal D. Diagnostic Accuracy of an Initial Azoospermic Reading Compared With Results of Post-Centrifugation Semen Analysis After Vasectomy. J Urol 2008; 180:2119-23. [DOI: 10.1016/j.juro.2008.07.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bonika Steward
- Family Health International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Melissa Hays
- Family Health International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - David Sokal
- Family Health International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Seamans Y, Harner-Jay CM. Modelling cost-effectiveness of different vasectomy methods in India, Kenya, and Mexico. COST EFFECTIVENESS AND RESOURCE ALLOCATION 2007; 5:8. [PMID: 17629921 PMCID: PMC1947949 DOI: 10.1186/1478-7547-5-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2006] [Accepted: 07/13/2007] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Vasectomy is generally considered a safe and effective method of permanent contraception. The historical effectiveness of vasectomy has been questioned by recent research results indicating that the most commonly used method of vasectomy – simple ligation and excision (L and E) – appears to have a relatively high failure rate, with reported pregnancy rates as high as 4%. Updated methods such as fascial interposition (FI) and thermal cautery can lower the rate of failure but may require additional financial investments and may not be appropriate for low-resource clinics. In order to better compare the cost-effectiveness of these different vasectomy methods, we modelled the costs of different vasectomy methods using cost data collected in India, Kenya, and Mexico and effectiveness data from the latest published research. Methods The costs associated with providing vasectomies were determined in each country through interviews with clinic staff. Costs collected were economic, direct, programme costs of fixed vasectomy services but did not include large capital expenses or general recurrent costs for the health care facility. Estimates of the time required to provide service were gained through interviews and training costs were based on the total costs of vasectomy training programmes in each country. Effectiveness data were obtained from recent published studies and comparative cost-effectiveness was determined using cost per couple years of protection (CYP). Results In each country, the labour to provide the vasectomy and follow-up services accounts for the greatest portion of the overall cost. Because each country almost exclusively used one vasectomy method at all of the clinics included in the study, we modelled costs based on the additional material, labour, and training costs required in each country. Using a model of a robust vasectomy program, more effective methods such as FI and thermal cautery reduce the cost per CYP of a vasectomy by $0.08 – $0.55. Conclusion Based on the results presented, more effective methods of vasectomy – including FI, thermal cautery, and thermal cautery combined with FI – are more cost-effective than L and E alone. Analysis shows that for a programme in which a minimum of 20 clients undergo vasectomies per month, the cost per CYP is reduced in all three countries by updated vasectomy methods.
Collapse
|
32
|
Labrecque M, Hays M, Chen-Mok M, Barone MA, Sokal D. Frequency and patterns of early recanalization after vasectomy. BMC Urol 2006; 6:25. [PMID: 16984640 PMCID: PMC1586021 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2490-6-25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2006] [Accepted: 09/19/2006] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Our understanding of early post-vasectomy recanalization is limited to histopathological studies. The objective of this study was to estimate the frequency and to describe semen analysis patterns of early recanalization after vasectomy. Methods Charts displaying serial post-vasectomy semen analyses were created using the semen analysis results from 826 and 389 men participating in a randomized trial of fascial interposition (FI) and an observational study of cautery, respectively. In the FI trial, participants were randomly allocated to vas occlusion by ligation and excision with or without FI. In the cautery study, sites used their usual cautery occlusion technique, two with and two without FI. Presumed early recanalization was based on the assessment of individual semen analysis charts by three independent reviewers. Discrepancies were resolved by consensus. Results Presumed early recanalization was characterized by a very low sperm concentration within two weeks after vasectomy followed by return to large numbers of sperm over the next few weeks. The overall proportion of men with presumed early recanalization was 13% (95% CI 12%–15%). The risk was highest with ligation and excision without FI (25%) and lowest for thermal cautery with FI (0%). The highest proportion of presumed early recanalization was observed among men classified as vasectomy failures. Conclusion Early recanalization, occurring within the first weeks after vasectomy, is more common than generally recognized. Its frequency depends on the occlusion technique performed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michel Labrecque
- Evaluation Research Unit, D1-724, Centre de recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec (CHUQ), Hôpital Saint-François d'Assise, 10, rue de l'Espinay, Québec, (Qc), G1L 3L5, Canada
| | - Melissa Hays
- Family Health International, 2224 East NC Highway 54, Durham, NC 27713, USA
| | - Mario Chen-Mok
- Family Health International, 2224 East NC Highway 54, Durham, NC 27713, USA
| | - Mark A Barone
- EngenderHealth, 440 Ninth Ave. New York, NY 10001, USA
| | - David Sokal
- Family Health International, 2224 East NC Highway 54, Durham, NC 27713, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Labrecque M, Barone MA, Pile J, Sokal DC. Re: How little is enough? The evidence for post-vasectomy testing. J Urol 2006; 175:791-2; author reply 792. [PMID: 16407056 DOI: 10.1016/s0022-5347(05)00173-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2005] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
|
34
|
Labrecque M, Pile J, Sokal D, Kaza RCM, Rahman M, Bodh SS, Bhattarai J, Bhatt GD, Vaidya TM. Vasectomy surgical techniques in South and South East Asia. BMC Urol 2005; 5:10. [PMID: 15916711 PMCID: PMC1180458 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2490-5-10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2005] [Accepted: 05/25/2005] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Simple ligation of the vas with suture material and excision of a small vas segment is believed to be the most common vasectomy occlusion technique performed in low-resource settings. Ligation and excision (LE) is associated with a risk of occlusion and contraceptive failure which can be reduced by performing fascial interposition (FI) along with LE. Combining FI with intra luminal thermal cautery could be even more effective. The objective of this study was to determine the surgical vasectomy techniques currently used in five Asian countries and to evaluate the facilitating and limiting factors to introduction and assessment of FI and thermal cautery in these countries. Methods Between December 2003 and February 2004, 3 to 6 major vasectomy centers from Cambodia, Thailand, India, Nepal, and Bangladesh were visited and interviews with 5 to 11 key informants in each country were conducted. Vasectomy techniques performed in each center were observed. Vasectomy techniques using hand-held, battery-driven cautery devices and FI were demonstrated and performed under supervision by local providers. Information about interest and open-mindedness regarding the use of thermal cautery and/or FI was gathered. Results The use of vasectomy was marginal in Thailand and Cambodia. In India, Nepal, and Bangladesh, vasectomy was supported by national reproductive health programs. Most vasectomies were performed using the No-Scalpel Vasectomy (NSV) technique and simple LE. The addition of FI to LE, although largely known, was seldom performed. The main reasons reported were: 1) insufficient surgical skills, 2) time needed to perform the technique, and 3) technique not being mandatory according to country standards. Thermal cautery devices for vasectomy were not available in any selected countries. Pilot hands-on assessment showed that the technique could be safely and effectively performed by Asian providers. However, in addition to provision of supplies, introducing cautery with FI could be associated with the same barriers encountered when introducing FI in combination with LE. Conclusion Further studies assessing the effectiveness, safety, and feasibility of implementation are needed before thermal cautery combined with FI is introduced in Asia on a large scale. Until thermal cautery is introduced in a country, vasectomy providers should practice LE with FI to maximize effectiveness of vasectomy procedure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michel Labrecque
- Department of Family Medicine, Laval University, Quebec City, Canada
| | - John Pile
- EngenderHealth, 440 Ninth Avenue, New York, NY 10001 USA
| | - David Sokal
- Family Health International, 2224 Chapel Hill-Nelson Hwy Durham, NC, 27713 USA
| | | | - Mizanur Rahman
- EngenderHealth, Bangladesh Country Office, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - SS Bodh
- EngenderHealth, India Country Office, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Ganesh D Bhatt
- Chhetrapati Family Welfare Center, Chhetrapati, Kathmandu Nepal
| | - Tika Man Vaidya
- Nepal Fertility Care Center, Jwagal Kopundole, Laitpur Nepal
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Ly LP, Liu PY, Handelsman DJ. Rates of suppression and recovery of human sperm output in testosterone-based hormonal contraceptive regimens*. Hum Reprod 2005; 20:1733-40. [PMID: 15860500 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deh834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Practical hormonal male contraceptive regimens are likely to have delayed onset and offset of reliable contraception dictated by the length of the spermatogenic cycle and clearance rate of pre-formed sperm from the ductular system. While delayed onset of contraceptive efficacy is an accepted feature of vasectomy, reliable time estimates for a hormonal male contraceptive of time to onset and offset of reliable contraception and of resumption of normal male fertility are required. METHODS AND RESULTS We utilized the sperm output data from three male contraceptive efficacy studies to define quantitative estimates of suppression and recovery rates from an androgen alone (testosterone enanthate) and an androgen/progestin (testosterone/depot medroxyprogesterone acetate) study. Using nearly 14,000 semen samples from World Health Organization (WHO) studies #85921 and #89903 with identical protocols, the rate of suppression of sperm output was best modelled as a two-parameter, single exponential decay function with effective half-time to suppression of 5.5 weeks and times of 6.8 weeks to 10 x 10(6)/ml, 8.7 weeks to 5 x 10(6)/ml, 10.0 weeks to 3 x 10(6)/ml and 13.0 weeks to 1 x 10(6)/ml. The rate of recovery using absolute sperm concentration was best modelled as a three-parameter, sigmoidal curve with effective time to reach half of the recovery plateau of 10.5 weeks and times of 9.0 weeks to 3 x 10(6)/ml, 9.9 weeks to 5 x 10(6)/ml, 11.5 weeks to 10 x 10(6)/ml, and 13.6 weeks to 20 x 10(6)/ml. Using relative sperm output, defined as a percentage of the participants' own baseline, recovery approached an asymptotic plateau of approximately 85% of geometric mean pre-treatment sperm concentration. In the combination androgen/progestin study, suppression rate was significantly faster (effective time to reach half maximal suppression of 3.0 weeks) and recovery significantly slower (effective time to reach half of recovery plateau of 14.7 weeks) and less complete (asymptotic recovery plateau of 43% of baseline) than in the androgen-alone WHO studies. CONCLUSION These findings therefore provide large sample estimates of the suppression and recovery rates from an androgen-alone hormonal male contraceptive regimen as a basis for comparison with other second-generation combination androgen/progestin regimens that are the most promising approach to developing practical male hormonal regimens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lam P Ly
- Departments of Andrology, Concord Hospital & ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney NSW 2139, Australia
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Affiliation(s)
- Kerry Wright Aradhya
- Field, Information and Training Services Department, Family Health International, PO Box 13950, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Sokal D, Irsula B, Chen-Mok M, Labrecque M, Barone MA. A comparison of vas occlusion techniques: cautery more effective than ligation and excision with fascial interposition. BMC Urol 2004; 4:12. [PMID: 15509302 PMCID: PMC529470 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2490-4-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2004] [Accepted: 10/27/2004] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vasectomy techniques have been the subject of relatively few rigorous studies. The objective of this analysis was to compare the effectiveness of two techniques for vas occlusion: intraluminal cautery versus ligation and excision with fascial interposition. More specifically, we aimed to compare early failure rates, sperm concentrations, and time to success between the two techniques. METHODS We compared semen analysis data from men following vasectomy using two occlusion techniques. Data on intraluminal cautery came from a prospective observational study conducted at four sites. Data on ligation and excision with fascial interposition came from a multicenter randomized controlled trial that evaluated the efficacy of ligation and excision with versus without fascial interposition. The surgical techniques used in the fascial interposition study were standardized. The surgeons in the cautery study used their customary techniques, which varied among sites in terms of type of cautery, use of fascial interposition, excision of a short segment of the vas, and use of an open-ended technique. Men in both studies had semen analyses two weeks after vasectomy and then approximately every four weeks. The two outcome measures for the analyses presented here are (a) time to success, defined as severe oligozoospermia, or <100,000 sperm/mL in two consecutive semen analyses; and (b) early vasectomy failure, defined as >10 million sperm/mL at week 12 or later. RESULTS Vasectomy with cautery was associated with a significantly more rapid progression to severe oligozoospermia and with significantly fewer early failures (1% versus 5%). CONCLUSION The use of cautery improves vasectomy outcomes. Limitations of this comparison include (a) the variety of surgical techniques in the cautery study and differences in methods of fascial interposition between the two studies, (b) the uncertain correlation between sperm concentrations after vasectomy and the risk of pregnancy, and (c) the use of historical controls and different study sites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Sokal
- Family Health International, PO Box 13950, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Belinda Irsula
- Family Health International, PO Box 13950, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Mario Chen-Mok
- Family Health International, PO Box 13950, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Michel Labrecque
- Department of Family Medicine, Laval University, Quebec City, Canada
| | - Mark A Barone
- EngenderHealth, 440 Ninth Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Barone MA, Irsula B, Chen-Mok M, Sokal DC. Effectiveness of vasectomy using cautery. BMC Urol 2004; 4:10. [PMID: 15260885 PMCID: PMC503392 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2490-4-10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2004] [Accepted: 07/19/2004] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Little evidence supports the use of any one vas occlusion method. Data from a number of studies now suggest that there are differences in effectiveness among different occlusion methods. The main objectives of this study were to estimate the effectiveness of vasectomy by cautery and to describe the trends in sperm counts after cautery vasectomy. Other objectives were to estimate time and number of ejaculations to success and to determine the predictive value of success at 12 weeks for final status at 24 weeks. Methods A prospective, non-comparative observational study was conducted between November 2001 and June 2002 at 4 centers in Brazil, Canada, the UK, and the US. Four hundred men who chose vasectomy were enrolled and followed for 6 months. Sites used their usual cautery vasectomy technique. Earlier and more frequent than normal semen analyses (2, 5, 8, 12, 16, 20, and 24 weeks after vasectomy) were performed. Planned outcomes included effectiveness (early failure based on semen analysis), trends in sperm counts, time and number of ejaculations to success, predictive value of success at 12 weeks for the outcome at 24 weeks, and safety evaluation. Results A total of 364 (91%) participants completed follow-up. The overall failure rate based on semen analysis was 0.8% (95% confidence interval 0.2, 2.3). By 12 weeks 96.4% of participants showed azoospermia or severe oligozoospermia (< 100,000 sperm/mL). The predictive value of a single severely oligozoospermia sample at 12 weeks for vasectomy success at the end of the study was 99.7%. One serious unrelated adverse event and no pregnancies were reported. Conclusion Cautery is a very effective method for occluding the vas. Failure based on semen analysis is rare. In settings where semen analysis is not practical, using 12 weeks as a guideline for when men can rely on their vasectomy should lessen the risk of failure compared to using a guideline of 20 ejaculations after vasectomy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Barone
- EngenderHealth, 440 Ninth Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA
| | - Belinda Irsula
- Family Health International, PO Box 13950, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Mario Chen-Mok
- Family Health International, PO Box 13950, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - David C Sokal
- Family Health International, PO Box 13950, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - the Investigator study group
- Investigator study group: Elsimar M. Coutinho, Centro de Pesquisa e Assistência em Reprodução Humana (CEPARH), Salvador, Brazil; Michel Labrecque, Unité de Médecine Familiale, Laval University, Québec City, Canada; Thomas R. Pritchett, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, WA, US; and Edward Streeter; Elliot-Smith Clinic, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, UK
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Labrecque M, Dufresne C, Barone MA, St-Hilaire K. Vasectomy surgical techniques: a systematic review. BMC Med 2004; 2:21. [PMID: 15157272 PMCID: PMC428590 DOI: 10.1186/1741-7015-2-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2003] [Accepted: 05/24/2004] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A wide variety of surgical techniques are used to perform vasectomy. The purpose of this systematic review was to assess if any surgical techniques to isolate or occlude the vas are associated with better outcomes in terms of occlusive and contraceptive effectiveness, and complications. METHODS We searched MEDLINE (1966-June 2003), EMBASE (1980-June 2003), reference lists of retrieved articles, urology textbooks, and our own files looking for studies comparing two or more vasectomy surgical techniques and reporting on effectiveness and complications. From 2,058 titles or abstracts, two independent reviewers identified 224 as potentially relevant. Full reports of 219 articles were retrieved and final selection was made by the same two independent reviewers using the same criteria as for the initial selection. Discrepancies were resolved by involving a third reviewer. Data were extracted and methodological quality of selected studies was assessed by two independent reviewers. Studies were divided in broad categories (isolation, occlusion, and combined isolation and occlusion techniques) and sub-categories of specific surgical techniques performed. Qualitative analyses and syntheses were done. RESULTS Of 31 comparative studies (37 articles), only four were randomized clinical trials, most studies were observational and retrospective. Overall methodological quality was low. From nine studies on vas isolation, there is good evidence that the no-scalpel vasectomy approach decreases the risk of surgical complications, namely hematoma/bleeding and infection, compared with incisional techniques. Five comparative studies including one high quality randomized clinical trial provided good evidence that fascial interposition (FI) increases the occlusive effectiveness of ligation and excision. Results of 11 comparative studies suggest that FI with cautery of the vas lumen provides the highest level of occlusive effectiveness, even when leaving the testicular end open. Otherwise, firm evidence to support any occlusion technique in terms of increased effectiveness or decreased risk of complications is lacking. CONCLUSIONS Current evidence supports no-scalpel vasectomy as the safest surgical approach to isolate the vas when performing vasectomy. Adding FI increases effectiveness beyond ligation and excision alone. Occlusive effectiveness appears to be further improved by combining FI with cautery. Methodologically sound prospective controlled studies should be conducted to evaluate specific occlusion techniques further.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michel Labrecque
- Clinical and Evaluative Research Unit Saint-François D'Assise Hospital, Centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec (CHUQ), 10 rue de l'Espinay, D1-724, Quebec City (QC), Canada G1L 3L5
| | - Caroline Dufresne
- Clinical and Evaluative Research Unit Saint-François D'Assise Hospital, Centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec (CHUQ), 10 rue de l'Espinay, D1-724, Quebec City (QC), Canada G1L 3L5
| | | | - Karine St-Hilaire
- Clinical and Evaluative Research Unit Saint-François D'Assise Hospital, Centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec (CHUQ), 10 rue de l'Espinay, D1-724, Quebec City (QC), Canada G1L 3L5
| |
Collapse
|