Vasovasostomy in dogs using the carbon dioxide milliwatt laser: Part II

Abstract

This is the second study of a two-prong investigation conducted to learn two different aspects of vasovasostomy in dog vas deferens by using the carbon dioxide milliwatt laser. This investigation involves the evaluation of patency and analysis of sperm. Six dogs underwent vasectomy, followed by vasovasostomies performed between 4 and 12 weeks later, utilizing two approximating sutures and welding with the carbon dioxide milliwatt laser. Metal clips were used both for x-ray analysis and localization of the vasovasostomy site. All dogs had pre-vasectomy semen analysis. Following vasectomy each dog underwent ejaculation until azoospermia was obtained. Vasovasostomy was performed and semen was examined. Prior to harvesting, vasography was also obtained. All ejaculates had active sperm noted and 12 of 12 vasograms (100%) revealed patency. The dogs were sacrificed at 4 weeks, 6 weeks, and 8 weeks post-vasovasostomy. The vasovasostomy specimens were studied with electron microscopy and by histological evaluation. The vasovasostomy was completed in under 90 minutes by using this laser-assisted technique. This procedure offers to the urologist a more simplified and reproducible operation that can be performed easily and with a potential decrease in hospital costs.

Silver halide fiber optic radiometric temperature measurement and control of CO2 laser‐irradiated tissues and application to tissue welding

“…Since the technique of laser-assisted tissue welding has first been described a large mass of experimental work [17][18][19][20][21] has accumulated. Additional work incorporating various biological glues as "soldering material" has also been reported [22,231.…”

Unilateral and Bilateral Vasectomy in the Dog: Alkaline Phosphatase as an Indicator of Tubular Patency

“…Similar approach could be taken to evaluate the success of removing the caudae epididymides to sterilize males for similar purposes (Althouse and Evans 1997). Conversely, in dogs that had obstruction of the vasa deferentia or epididymides, an increase in AP concentrations following vasovasostomy could be used as a sign of restored tubular patency (Seidmon et al 1990).…”

Vasal anastomoses in dogs using contact neodymium: Yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser

“…Unlike conventional microsurgical suture techniques, laser vasal anastomosis does not demand any special manual skill or training from the surgeon. The gain in time is the main advantage as compared with suture technique [3][4][5][6][7][8]10,11]. The most popular types of laser in vasal anastomosis are CO, or Nd:YAG laser.…”