Login to Access Video or Poster Abstract: MP89-15
Sources of Funding: None

Introduction

Vasectomy is a commonly used method of permanent sterilization in the US. The overwhelming majority of these men have fathered at least one child. However, a small subset of men undergoing elective sterilization have never fathered a child. We sought to describe the clinical and social aspects of the childless male seeking vasectomy reversal and analyze any potential differences from their counterparts. _x000D_

Methods

Retrospective chart review was performed for patients presenting for vasectomy reversal from 2011-2015. 1,242 men were identified for analysis. Patient and partner demographics, parity status and reversal type were compared between prior fathers and childless men._x000D_

Results

Our database included 1,242 men from 2011 to 2015 whom had previously had a vasectomy and were seeking reversal. Of those, 9% (n=116) had never previously fathered children, and 91% (n=1,126) had at least one prior child. These men were largely similar on comparison of age (41.4 vs 39.8 years), partner age (32.8 years), and known female factor (2.5%). However, childless men were significantly more likely to have a nulliparous female partner; 79% vs 59% (p=<0.001). They were also found to have a slightly longer obstructive interval (8.95 vs 10.02 years, p=0.076), although this point did not reach statistical significance. Comparing type of reversal in childless vs those with children, bilateral VV performed in 74% vs 66%, bilateral VE performed in 10% vs 12% and combination VV/VE in 13% vs 16%; these differences were not significant. Patency was 98% (n=102) for childless men and 94% (n=949) for men with prior children.

Conclusions

This retrospective review sheds light on a unique population of men for which there is a paucity of data in the literature. To our knowledge this is the first study examining childless men electing vasectomy reversal. This data offers important information that may be included in preoperative counseling targeted specifically to men whom have not fathered children. _x000D_

Funding

None