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Complications of vasectomy.
Ninaad S Awsare1, Jai Krishnan, Greg B Boustead
1Department of Urology, Lister Hospital, Stevenage, UK. ninaad_awsare@hotmail.com
Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England
|November 3, 2005
Summary
Vasectomy is a safe sterilization method with low failure rates (0-2%). Potential complications include orchalgia (15%), but cancer risks are not increased. Proper counseling and expertise minimize risks.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Reproductive Health
- Surgical Complications
Background:
- Vasectomy is a common male sterilization technique.
- It is less globally adopted than female sterilization (tubal ligation).
- Complications associated with vasectomy are a significant cause of litigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the early and late risks associated with vasectomy.
- To provide evidence-based information on vasectomy complications and outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search using Medline for evidence-based reviews.
- Cross-referencing key articles for comprehensive data.
- Inclusion of guidelines from government and medical associations.
Main Results:
- Early complications: hematoma, infections, fistulae. Failure rate: 0-2%, with 0.2% due to recanalization.
- Late complications: chronic orchalgia (up to 15%), potentially requiring intervention.
- No increased risk of heart disease, testicular, or prostate cancer; lower mortality than tubal occlusion, but higher in non-industrialized nations due to infections.
Conclusions:
- Vasectomy is generally safe and simple but demands surgical expertise to mitigate complications.
- Effective pre-operative patient counseling is crucial for acceptance and managing expectations.
- Understanding and minimizing risks are key to successful vasectomy outcomes.