Male sterilization
Kremer, J.
Tijdschrift Voor Ziekenverpleging 31(17): 780-787
1978
PMID: 250305 Document Number: 357826
Between 1975 and 1978, 35,000 to 40,000 Dutch men underwent sterilization operations per year. Sterilization is not indicated if the man is not married, has no children, if there are marital or mental problems, or if there are indications for contraception or sterilization for his wife. Vas ligation, vasotomy, and vasectomy are three operations to induce male sterility. Vasectomy is the most effective but least likely to be reversible. The operation can be performed in a polyclinic under local anesthesia and takes 15-30 minutes. The operation procedure is described in detail. The first sperm count should be taken 8 weeks after the operation. In most cases, azoospermia is demonstrated after 3 months following the operation. Complications of vasectomy which occur during the operation are vasovagal collapse (1-5%) and motor disturbance (2-10%). Early post-operative complications include: intrascrotal hematoma (2-7%), infection (1-6%), and pain (1-10%). Frequent late complications are sperm granuloma (1-18%), recanalization (0-6%), and development of sperm antibodies (50-62%). Restoration of fertility after a vasectomy is usually not possible. The best results are obtained with end-to-end reanastomosis with a splint to facilitate healing.