OBSTRUCTIVE STERILITY IN THE MALE

Abstract

Obstructive sterility in the male is easily diagnosed by microscopic examination of the semen. The semen shows a complete absence of spermatozoa. The only treatment in these cases is surgery. We must make an anastomosis around the obstruction to permit the passage of the sperm. The particular operation necessary to be performed depends on the location of the obstruction, thus: If the obstruction is in the epididymis, the operation will be direct vaso-epididymostomy. In the scrotal vas, resection of the obstruction and union of the vas, either end to end or lateral. In the pelvic vas or ejaculatory duct, author's sac operation. In the pelvic vas on one side and epididymis or scrotal vas on the other side, anastomosis of the vas on one side to the vas on the other side above the obstruction; crossed anastomosis. There may be combinations o f any of the foregoing. Diagnosis of the