Ejaculatory duct obstruction
Wu, H.-F.
Zhonghua Nan Ke Xue 16(1): 3-9
2010
ISSN/ISBN: 1009-3591 PMID: 20180396 Document Number: 638374
Ejaculatory duct obstruction (EDO) is an important cause of male infertility. Etiologically it can be either congenital or acquired. The diagnosis of EDO mainly depends on history, physical examination, semen analysis, and transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS). The semen of EDO patients is characterized by low ejaculate volume, oligospermia or azoospermia, low pH, and absence of fructose. Technetium (99Tc(m)) Sulphur Colloid Seminal Vesicle Scintigraphy is of great value in the differential diagnosis of functional, partial and complete obstruction. Definite diagnosis of EDO can be established by vasography, seminal vesicle aspiration and seminal vesiculography. Transurethral resection of the ejaculatory ducts (TURED), as the standard method of treatment for EDO, is effective for many of the patients. And the assistant reproductive technology (ART) is required if the procedure fails to restore the patient's fertility.