Noninvasive Laser Vasectomy: Preliminary Ex Vivo Tissue Studies

Background and Objectives: Male sterilization (vasectomy) is more successful, safer. less expensive, and easier to perform than female sterilization (tubal ligation). However, female sterilization is more popular, primarily due to male fear of vasectomy complications (incision, bleeding, infection, and scrotal pain). The development of a completely noninvasive, vasectomy technique may eliminate these concerns. Materials and Methods: Ytterbium fiber laser radiation with a wavelength of 1,075 nm, average power of 11.7 W, 1-second pulse duration, 0.5 Hz Pulse rate, and 3-mm-diameter spot was synchronized with cryogen cooling of the scrotal skin surface in canine tissue for a treatment time of 60 seconds. Results: Vas thermal lesion dimensions measured 2.0 = 0.3 mm diameter by 3.0 +/- 0.9 mm length, without evidence of skin damage. The coagulated vas bursting pressure measured 295 +/- 72 mm Hg, significantly higher than typical vas ejaculation pressures of 136 +/- 29 mm Hg. Conclusions: Noninvasive thermal coagulation and occlusion of the vas was produced in an ex vivo canine tissue model. However, chronic in vivo animal studies will be necessary to optimize the laser/cooling treatment parameters and confirm long-term vas occlusion with absence of sperm in the ejaculate, before clinical application. Lasers Surg.. Med. 41:203-207, 2009. (C) 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.