The Use of a Viscoelastic Solution to Improve Visualization
During Urologic Microsurgery: Evaluation
of Patency After Vasovasostomy

Objectives

Viscoat® is a non-pyrogenic, sterile, viscoelastic solution used to protect endothelium and enhance visualization in cataract and corneal surgery. Since Viscoat® is commonly used in ophthalmic surgery, we evaluated whether it could improve optics in urologic microsurgery without adversely affecting outcomes.

Methods

We retrospectively compared consecutive vasovasostomies performed by a single surgeon with (n=23) and without (n=51) the bilateral use of Viscoat®. Examined parameters included patient age, vasectomy duration, intra-operative sperm characteristics, patency (ejaculation of motile sperm), time to patency, and post-operative semen characteristics. Comparisons of sample means and proportions were assessed with ANOVA, Wilcoxon and Chi-squared tests.

Results

Subjectively, Viscoat® improved visualization of the vasal lumen, suture placement and aided in resident and fellow instruction. Vasovasostomy cases performed with and without the use of Viscoat® were similar with regard to patient and intra-operative characteristics. Overall patency rates were similar between the two groups (91% vs. 92%, p=0.92) with a median follow-up of 7 months. In addition, the best total motile sperm count and the durability of achieved patency were similar between the two groups.

Conclusions

Viscoat® is a dispersive agent that does not adversely affect surgical patency after vasovasostomy. Subjectively, it is helpful to visualize the lumen of the vas deferens in urologic microsurgery.

Viscoelastic Solution Visualization Improvement in Urologic Microsurgery