The vasectomized testis

We have performed a qualitative study on effects of vasectomy on the testic ular structure. Vasectomy performed with the traditional technique changes testicular structure. At first, the injuries are slight and restricted, but gradually, and in a time-dependent manner, become more severe and extensiv e. Ultrastructure studies indicate that the spermatogonia and Sertoli's cells are the most resistant to vasectomy, and are even observed in some regenera ting testes lacking a complete germinal epithelium. Morphometric studies revealed a decrease in epithelial depth, an increase i n the thickness of the basement membrane and in surface of the interstitial space, all significant (P < 0.01) with respect to the control. However, the percentage of the interstitial tissue occupied by cells, did n ot show any significant difference. We propose that the increase of intralu minal pressure is the essential factor that provokes testicular atrophy.