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The records of 1,029 consecutive patients undergoing bilateral vasectomy were reviewed. Of the 1,029 patients 375 (36%) never returned postoperatively and the partners of 2 of these 375 later became pregnant. A total of 560 patients (54%) was followed until the recommended demonstration of azoospermia occurred on 2 consecutive occasions. There were 84 patients (8%) who did not return after the first demonstration of azoospermia, while 7 (1%) still had sperm in the semen at the last examination. Three other patients had persistent nonmotile sperm postoperatively; 2 of them underwent repeat vasectomy followed by azoospermia and 1 was placed in a special clearance category of sterility as described. We discuss practical and legal considerations regarding the management of noncompliant patients.

A microsurgical laboratory model is described which uses optimally preserved human vasectomy segments. These preserved specimens retain their natural appearance and handling qualities, permitting ready availability of material for practice, which is mandatory before clinical performance. If laboratory facilities are not available, the model can be used for practice in a convenient area of the operating suite.