Operative procedures for male sterilization
Schmiedt, E.
Geburtshilfe und Frauenheilkunde 36(3): 200-207
1976
ISSN/ISBN: 0016-5751 PMID: 1261783 Document Number: 109299
Aspects of vasectomy in West Germany are discussed. The legal situation of vasectomy is still unclear, in spite of its increasing acceptance, so the author recommends a thorough discussion of the procedure, its advantages, disadvantages, side effects, and implications, with both the patient and his wife, and a written declaration of informed consent from both. Medical indications for vasectomy include serious hereditary diseases, allergies to contraceptive substances and devices, and the wife's inability to use oral or other contraceptives. (The opinion of the gynecologist should be requested in this case.) Only men at least 25-years-old, who have had 3 children, should be candidates for vasectomy. Complications of vasectomy include spermagranuloma, hemorrhage, and infection. There seems to be no grounds for fear of immunological side effects. Although reanastomosis is successful in 10-30% of cases, the procedure should be considered permanent. The technique is described in detail.