Some gross observations of the epididymides following vasectomy: a clinical study.

In 114 vasectomized men, 220 epididymides were grossly examined during vasovasostomy. Fullness, distention, turgidity, thickening, induration, and other gross changes of the epididymides, including the formation of cystic spermatic granuloma, or spermatocele, indicated inadequate removal of spermatozoa and testicular fluid from the sequestrated proximal seminal ducts and the epididymis. Further studies are necessary to determine whether the epididymal changes following vasectomy have any effect on sperm morphology and sperm physiology. The information obtained from these studies possibly may explain the poor pregnancy rates in the spouses of successfully vasanastomosed patients.