Vasovasostomy. Experimental comparative study of polyglycolic acid and polypropylene sutures in the dog.

Experimental vasovasostomy in dogs using polyethylene tubing for splints and comparing polyglycolic acid to polypropylene sutures demonstrates the following: Polyglycolic acid sutures result in a higher vasovasostomy patency rate. Grossly and microscopically, polyglycolic acid sutures are associated with less vasal and perivasal fibrosis. Postoperative use of very small polyethylene tubing for splints appears feasible. Leaving splints entirely intraluminally at the time of surgery may be advantageous. It would necessitate vasotomy for removal of the splint postoperatively, but this is easily accomplished and not associated with increased morbidity. A transscrotal approach is associated with a much higher vasal patency rate than is an inguinal approach.