Effects of granuloma formation at site of vasovasostomy

Abstract

Spermatic granulomas forming after vasectomy reversal have been thought to mechanically compromise the anastomosis. We have studied the physiologic effects of vasectomy and vasovasostomy in rats. Following delayed microsurgical vasovasostomy, fluid flow through the anastomosis and cauda epididymidal hydrostatic pressure are not significantly different in tracts that form, or do not form, sperm granulomas at the anastomosis. Given a properly performed microsurgical vasectomy reversal, a sperm granuloma arising from a small leak does not appear to mechanically compromise the anastomosis in the rat. Fertility after vasovasostomy is not significantly reduced in rats with granulomas.