[Microsurgical vasovasostomy at the Erasmus MC, 1998-2002: results and predictive factors].
OBJECTIVE
To determine the results ofmicrosurgical vasovasostomy procedures with special emphasis on the technical aspects and predictive factors for successful procedures.


METHODS
Descriptive.


METHODS
In 1998-2002, 217 vasovasostomy procedures were performed in an outpatients' clinic setting at the Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.


RESULTS
Refertilisation was successful in 77% of men and 42% of couples reported a spontaneous pregnancy within one year. The most important predictive factors for a successful outcome were the interval between vasectomy and reversal and the age of the partner. Patency rates were 89% and 62% when the interval was < 5 years and > 15 years, respectively. Rates of spontaneous pregnancy were 56% and 21%, respectively. These reductions in rates of patency and pregnancy were attributed primarily to epididymal dysfunction and an increasing interval between vasectomy and reversal. Only 20% of men with a partner aged > 35 years reported spontaneous pregnancies. The risk of secondary epididymal obstruction was 25% after an interval of > 10 years. For these cases, a vasoepididymostomy is needed to achieve patency.
Dohle
G R
GR
Erasmus MC, afd. Urologie, Postbus 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam. g.r.dohle@erasmusmc.nl
Smit
M
M
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008866:Microsurgery / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009426:Netherlands; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011247:Pregnancy; D018873:Pregnancy Rate; D013997:Time Factors; D017211:Treatment Failure; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014669:Vasovasostomy / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards*