Trial of ibuprofen to prevent post-vasectomy complications
Manson, A.L.
Journal of Urology 139(5): 965-966
1988
ISSN/ISBN: 0022-5347 PMID: 3283384 DOI: 10.1016/s0022-5347(17)42732-7Document Number: 359307
The potential use of ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, after vasectomy was examined effort to decrease inflammatory complications -- sperm granuloma and epididymitis. 102 men 25-46 years underwent vasectomy in an outpatient setting between July 1986 and May 1987. The patients alternately were selected randomly into 2 groups, Group 1 received a 7-day course of 800 mg ibuprofen 3 times daily; group 2 was given no medication. All patients returned for followup 2 weeks later. During this examination, specific attention was directed to the possible presence of a hematoma, early granuloma, epididymitis, or infection. A semen analysis was obtained at 6-8 weeks. 95 (93.1%) of the men returned for followup examination: 46 were in group 1 and 49 in group 2. Significant postoperative complications included hematoma, sperm granuloma, and epididymitis. No patients suffered any reactions or complications while on the ibuprofen. There was no increase in postoperative bleeding or hematoma formation. Complications occurred in 8.4% of the patients. There was no statistically significant difference in the total complication rate or individual complications between groups 1 and 2. The ibuprofen was tolerated well, and no adverse reactions to the medication were noted. There was no increase in postoperative bleeding or hematoma formation. There also was no obvious benefit or reduction in complication rates with this regimen. Its use for prophylaxis after vasectomy cannot be recommended.