Year: 2024
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Introduction Limited data exist on semen parameters post vasectomy reversal. Specifically, no studies have rigorously evaluated the likelihood of sperm return following discovery of azoospermia at some time point post vasectomy reversal. Objective To evaluate the rate of return of sperm among men who experience an azoospermia result post vasectomy-reversal. Methods A large, prospective dataset has been maintained of men undergoing vasectomy reversals at a single center from 2019 to the present. Men who had at least two post-operative semen analyses were included for review. The data were then analyzed in a manner to identify those who experienced a 0 count at varying time points and then either went on to continue to have 0’s beyond that point or who experienced a return of sperm. Results A total of 3414 men underwent a vasectomy reversal since 2019, with 2703 having semen analysis data available for review. Overall demographics demonstrated a mean age of 41, partner age 33, median time since vasectomy of 7 years, 92% first-time cases, and distribution of repair as noted: VV/VV (79%), VV/EV (12%), EV/EV (6%), VV/x (1%), EV/x (<1%), x/x (0%). Of men who had 0 sperm at varying time points, the percentages of those who experienced a return of sperm are noted as follows: 0 sperm at <2 months (52% experienced a return at some point, n = 349 used in calculation), 0 at 2-4 months (38% return, n = 210), 0 at 5-7 months (17% return, n = 206), 0 at 8-10 months (20% return, n = 133), 0 at 11-18 months (9% return, n = 107). The data are limited by the fact that relatively few men continued to send in semen analysis samples beyond 12 months (n = 403 with at least one result >12 months and n = 101 with results >24 months). Conclusions Men who experience azoospermia post-vasectomy reversal may experience a return of sperm over time, with the likelihood for return declining based on the duration of persistence of 0 sperm. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: PathRight Medical.
Source: The Journal of Sexual Medicine
Institutions: Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine, Mayo Clinic
Language: English
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4405221698