Factors predicting success after microsurgical vasovasostomy

Abstract

Purpose: To identify factors predicting success and analyze critically the status of microsurgical double-layer vasovasostomy using predictive models.

Methods: A cohort of 263 patients treated at our institution for vasectomy reversal between 1986 and 2010 was included in our study, and the literature was reviewed. Inclusion criteria were previous bilateral vasectomy and presence of at least two postoperative semen analyses; patients reporting pregnancy without a postoperative semen analysis were excluded. A double-layer, microscope-assisted, tension-free anastomosis vasovasostomy was performed approximating mucosa to mucosa and muscle to muscle with a 10-0 non-absorbable suture. A multivariate logistic regression backward stepwise model was used to predict combined success, and a predictive model was calculated with remaining variables.

Results: Mean age was of 41.6 years (SD 7.1); mean duration of obstruction 7.2 years (SD 6.7). On multivariate analysis, uni- or bilateral granuloma and Silber grade of I-III were variable identified predicting higher probability to success (OR 3.105; 95% CI 1.108-8.702; p = 0.031 and OR 4.795; 95% CI 2.117-10.860; p < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions: Based on our results, some factors predicting success after vasovasostomy surgery are known but others remain unknown; our predictive model may easily predict patency and success after this surgery and offers a concrete assistance in counseling patients.

Keywords: Microsurgery; Patency; Predictive factors; Vasectomy reversal.