Pelvic vasectomy and its protective effects on rat testis function.

Abstract

Background: Vasectomy is a commonly used male contraceptive method, but the choice of surgical technique can influence long-term reproductive health outcomes. Previous studies suggest that different vasectomy techniques may lead to varying degrees of tissue damage, oxidative stress, and endocrine dysfunction. However, there is limited research on how these techniques affect overall reproductive system function. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate and compare the effects of two vasectomy techniques on reproductive system parameters in rats.

Methods: Twenty-four specific pathogen-free male Sprague-Dawley rats weighing 250-300 g were randomly divided into four groups: sham operation group, negative control group, traditional vasectomy group, and modified vasectomy group, with six rats in each group. Each group underwent specific vasectomy procedures, followed by a three-month recovery period. Experimental methods included hematoxylin and eosin staining, immunohistochemistry in the epididymis of rats, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling for apoptosis detection, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for measuring serum hormone and oxidative stress markers, as well as tests for sexual behavior and anxiety-like behavior.

Results: The modified vasectomy group exhibited improved epididymis morphology compared to the traditional vasectomy group. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated reduced levels of apoptosis in the modified vasectomy group, which was further corroborated by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling staining, indicating lower cell death. Hormone analysis revealed stable levels in the modified vasectomy group, and oxidative stress markers indicated reduced stress responses. Behavioral test assessing sexual activity and anxiety level was consistent with these findings.

Conclusion: Modified vasectomy techniques provide superior protection of reproductive system functionality in rats compared to traditional methods. These techniques reduce tissue damage, cell apoptosis, and oxidative stress while maintaining endocrine function, offering promising implications for clinical applications.