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J Reconstr Microsurg 1991; 7(4): 317-320
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1006790
ORIGINAL ARTICLE

© 1991 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Stented Laser-Welded Vasovasostomy in the Rat: Comparison of Nd:YAG and CO2 Lasers

J. Alefelder, J. Philipp, U. H. Engelmann, T. Senge
  • Department of Urology, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Herne, Germany
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Publication History

Accepted for publication 1991

Publication Date:
08 March 2008 (online)

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ABSTRACT

In 54 male Sprague-Dawley rats, 108 vasovasostomies were performed. Sutureless laser welding with the assistance of a removable stent was done using a CO2- and an Nd:YAG-laser system. Conventional two-layer microsurgical anastomoses served as controls. The Nd:YAG laser resulted in significantly lower patency rates, with a higher percentage of sperm granulomas; the CO2 laser produced results equivalent to conventional suturing. Sutureless laser welding utilizing a removable stent proved to be a time- and cost- saving procedure for vasovasostomies in the rat.