Clinical Report: Retained silk may underlie late postvasectomy fistula
Background
Vasectomy is a common procedure for male sterilization, but complications such as fistula formation can occur, particularly when nonabsorbable sutures are used. This case highlights the potential for delayed complications.
Data Highlights
No numerical data or trial data available in the article.
Key Findings
- A 43-year-old male developed a vasocutaneous fistula three years after a bilateral no-scalpel vasectomy.
- The fistula was associated with retained silk ligature and chronic inflammation.
- Diagnosis was based on clinical examination, imaging, and histopathologic findings.
- Surgical excision of the fistulous tract resulted in complete resolution of symptoms.
- Histopathology revealed chronic inflammatory infiltrates and confirmed the presence of spermatozoa in the discharge.
Clinical Implications
Clinicians should consider the possibility of delayed vasocutaneous fistula in patients with persistent scrotal discharge following vasectomy, especially when spermatozoa are present.
Conclusion
This case presents a delayed vasocutaneous fistula formation associated with retained silk ligature.
Related Resources & Content
- Thiagarajan S., BMC Urology, 2026 -- Delayed vasocutaneous fistula following vasectomy associated with retained silk ligature: a case report with clinicopathological correlation
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- Vasectomy: AUA Guideline (2026)
- U.S. Selected Practice Recommendations for Contraceptive Use, 2024 | Contraception | CDC
- Review of vasocutaneous fistulas and other rare complications after vasectomy
- https://www.nsvi.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/AUA-Guidelines-Vasectomy.pdf
- Vasectomy: Guidelines From the American Urological Association | AFP
- Vasectomy by ligation and excision, with or without fascial interposition: a randomized controlled trial [ISRCTN77781689] - PMC
- A comparison of vas occlusion techniques: cautery more effective than ligation and excision with fascial interposition - PMC
- Vasectomy occlusion techniques for male sterilization - PMC
- Delayed vasocutaneous fistula following vasectomy associated with retained silk ligature: a case report with clinicopathological correlation | BMC Urology | Springer Nature Link
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