THESIS: R. Sartori Filho submitted this dissertation for the degree of Master of Veterinary Medicine in Animal Reproduction, publicly examined at the FMVZ - UNESP, São Paulo State University, Brazil, in 1997.
Advisor: Professor Nereu Carlos Prestes
ABSTRACT. Testicular biopsy is a very useful complementary technique in male reproductive examination for the investigation of infertility or subfertility, in addition to permitting studies about male reproductive physiology. However, sequelae due to testicular biopsy such as hemorrhage, adhesion and fibrosis might be limiting factors to the use of this surgical procedure. The objectives of the present study were to evaluate if the testicular biopsy with Tru-Cut needle in rams is feasible in order to obtain material for an adequate histological evaluation. Another objective of this work is to study possible reproductive complications resulting from the use of this technique with follow up consisting of semen examinations, ultrasonography and determination of serum free testosterone for a period of 100 days and to perform gross and histological examinations. At the same time, the applicability of fibrin glue derived from snake venom was evaluated in regard to its hemostatic and sealing properties, prevention of testicular adhesion formations and its healing effect on the testicle, tunica vaginalis and skin. Thirty mature rams were used. They were divided into 3 groups of 10 animals each, as follows: G1: control group (animals not subjected to biopsy), G2: fibrin glue group (application of fibrin glue on puncture sites and skin incisions after bilateral testicular biopsy) and G3: swab/nylon group (hemostasis by compression with a swab on puncture sites and skin suturing with nylon after biopsy). Evaluation of semen and testicular size was carried out before biopsy and 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100 days after biopsy. Ultrasonographic examinations were performed before biopsy and 4, 8, 14, 24, 50, 70 and 100 days after surgery. Serum determinations of free testosterone were conducted before biopsy and 30, 60 and 90 days after surgery. One hundred days after biopsy, at the time of orchiectomy, the material was evaluated for the presence of subcutaneous (SC) and/or tunica vaginalis adhesions. G1 did not present abnormalities. G2 and G3 presented 4 testicles (20%) with adhesion between the tunics at biopsy site. Adhesions in SC were observed once (5%) in G2 and 3 times (15%) in G3. Fibrin glue showed to be easy to apply, did not require postoperative follow up and presented fast and good-quality skin healing. The biopsy technique used did not significantly compromise semen characteristics, testicular size or testosterone concentrations in the animals of both groups (G2 and G3). The ultrasonographic findings permitted to map the alterations (mainly calcifications) and to follow the evaluation of the lesions. The testicular biopsy with Tru-Cut needle in rams permitted to obtain enough material for an adequate histological examination and showed to be a simple, safe and efficient technique.
CORRESPONDENCE TO:
R. SARTORI FILHO - Rua Cardoso de Almeida, 1600, CEP 18.602-130, Botucatu, SP, Brasil.
Publication Dates
-
Publication in this collection
26 Nov 1998 -
Date of issue
1998
