<正> Aim: To demonstrate the effect of capsulotomy on the fertility of male rats. Methods: Testicular capsulotomywas carded out in immature (21 days) and adult (60 days) male rats. The fertility of them was assessed by cohabita-tion with proestrus females overnight and 20 days later, the females were examined for impregnation. Morphologicalchanges at the site of the capsulotomy were observed under light microscope. Results: In rats capsulotomized atDay 60, the fertility was gradually depressed and all the rats completely lost their fertility 2 months post-operation. Atthat time, a partial regeneration of the capsule at the site of capsulotomy was observed. Immature rats capsulotomized atDay 21 were found to possess normal fertility at maturity. The capsulotomy site was almost completely recovered 60days post-operation. Conclusion: In male rats, testicular capsulotomy at the age of Day 60 will damage fertility.However, when capsulotomy is performed at Day 21, fertility is preserve.(Asian J Androl 2001 Mar; 3:
