What does it consist of?
In re-establishing the permeability of the seminal duct when the epididymis (first segment through which sperm from the testicle emerge) is obstructed. The epididymis is a duct of some 300 microns in diameter and a length of 5 to
When is it done?
When there is an obstruction of the epididymis and surgery is opted for in order to re-establish the permeability of the duct. In these cases there is also the possibility of proceeding with an in vitro fertilisation (IVF) with sperm obtained from the testicle or the vas deferens itself.
How is it done?
The epididymis is the smallest tube in the human body.
When it is obstructed it can reach a diameter of a tenth of a millimetre. To work on these fine structures the use of an operating microscope is essential along with micro-surgical techniques.
Under general or local anaesthetic a small incision is made in the testicular sac. First, the vas deferens is located and its permeability through to the urethra is checked. Subsequently, the healthy segment of the epididymis is located (prior to the obstructed area) and checked for any sperm held within it. In the affirmative, we proceed with joining the fine tube of the epididymis to the previously sectioned duct.
Whenever this surgery is undertaken, the opportunity is always taken to aspirate sperm for its freezing and future use, where necessary, in the ICSI technique.
Micro-surgical epididymovasostomy
How long does it last?
Between 1 and 2 hours
Are there any complications?
As with all testicular surgeries, in exceptional cases there may be a hematoma (bruise) of differing intensity.
