2022 Canadian Urological Association best practice report: Vasectomy Flashcards
Figure 1. Proposed algorithm for post-vasectomy testing protocol.
What is the primary purpose of a vasectomy?
What is the primary purpose of a vasectomy?
What are the potential complications associated with vasectomy?
Vasectomy, although a simple elective procedure, can have potential minor and major complications.
What is the early failure rate of vasectomy?
The early failure rate (presence of motile sperm in the ejaculate at 3–6 months post-vasectomy) is between 0.2–5%.
How does the late failure rate of vasectomy compare to the early failure rate?
The late failure rate is much lower, ranging between 0.04–0.08%.
Which vasectomy technique is associated with a lower risk of early postoperative complications?
The no-scalpel vasectomy technique.
How can the risk of contraceptive failure be reduced in vasectomy?
By using cautery or fascial interposition.
Why is careful assessment of the post-vasectomy ejaculate imperative?
To check for the presence of sperm, which can indicate failure.
What potential legal issue can arise if adequate information and counselling aren’t provided to patients about vasectomy?
Failure to provide and document sufficient information and counselling can lead to litigation.
What is the main focus of the 2022 Canadian Urological Association guideline on Vasectomy?
The management of men presenting for vasectomy, covering preoperative counselling, vasectomy efficacy and complications, technical aspects, post-vasectomy semen testing, and interpretation-communication of post-vasectomy semen results.
What is the ultimate objective of the guideline?
To help standardize the treatment of men presenting for vasectomy through evidence-based consensus.
What should be described during the initial consultation for a vasectomy?
The procedure.
List the early complications of a vasectomy that men must be informed about.
List the early complications of a vasectomy that men must be informed about.
List the early complications of a vasectomy that men must be informed about.
Infection (0.2–1.5%), bleeding or hematoma (4–20%), and primary (early) surgical failure (0.2–5%).
When might motile sperm be seen in the ejaculate post-vasectomy?
3–6 months post-vasectomy.
What are the late complications of vasectomy?
Chronic scrotal pain (1–14%) and delayed vasectomy failure after azoospermia at four months (0.05–1%).
How often might complications like bleeding and testicular pain necessitate surgical intervention?
Infrequently (<0.1%).
How should information about vasectomy complications be provided to the patient?
Verbally and through an information pamphlet.
How should a vasectomy be viewed in terms of contraception?
As a permanent form of contraception with a high probability of reversibility.
Which alternatives can be discussed if patients are concerned about the permanent nature of vasectomy?
Preoperative sperm banking, postoperative vasectomy reversal, and sperm retrieval for in vitro fertilization.
Is there a clear association between vasectomy and prostate cancer?
No.
Which complications need not be discussed unless the patient inquires?
Vascular disease, hypertension, testicular cancer.
Why must couples continue to use other contraceptive measures shortly after a vasectomy?
Due to the potential for early re-canalization, technical failure, and the rate of primary (early) surgical failure (0.2–5%).
What action is recommended if motile spermatozoa are present in the ejaculate six months after the procedure?
A re-do vasectomy.
What is the suggested approach if patients are ready to undergo a vasectomy at the end of the initial consultation?
Vasectomy may be performed shortly after the initial consultation unless there are valid medical reasons to wait.
How common is it for men below the age of 25 in the U.S. to choose vasectomy as a form of contraception?
Rare.
What is the likelihood of men in their 20s seeking vasectomy reversal if they underwent vasectomy in their 20s?
12.5 times greater.
What is the estimated prevalence of varicoceles in the general male population?
15%.
What special considerations should be made when performing vasectomy in men with a clinical varicocele or with prior varicocelectomy?
Carefully isolate the vas deferens and completely exclude the associated deferential arteries and veins to avoid potential injury.
Evolution of vasectomy techniques
Over the years, the technique of vasectomy has seen significant modifications. This includes changes in equipment, materials, and methods of anesthesia.
Importance of continuing medical education for surgeons performing vasectomies
Surgeons should obtain regular continuing medical education on vasectomy. This includes updates on surgical techniques and staying informed on new studies in the latest peer-reviewed journals and clinical guidelines.
Preferred anesthesia for vasectomy procedures
Local anesthesia is typically sufficient for most vasectomy patients. However, anxious patients or those with complicating factors might need sedation or a general anesthetic.
What are some complicating factors that may require a patient to receive sedation or general anesthesia for a vasectomy?
Previous orchidopexy or other scrotal surgeries.
Controversy surrounding the use of topical anesthetic before injection of local anesthetic for vasectomy
There is controversy regarding the benefit of using topical anesthetic prior to injecting a local anesthetic for vasectomy procedures.
Recommended needle gauge for vasectomy local anesthesia
A small, 27–32-gauge needle is thought to be beneficial for local anesthesia during vasectomy.