surgeries

Transurethral resection of Ejaculatory ducts

A minimally invasive surgical treatment called transurethral resection of Ejaculatory Ducts (TURED) is used to treat male infertility brought on by ejaculatory duct obstruction. When the tubes that carry semen from the testicles to the urethra become blocked, it is known as ejaculatory duct obstruction, which prevents the discharge of sperm during ejaculation. The procedure known as TURED is frequently done to clear obstructions and restore fertility.

Symptoms of Ejaculatory duct obstruction

Low levels of semen produced during ejaculation, pain or discomfort during ejaculation, and infertility are all signs of ejaculatory duct obstruction.

Causes

Ejaculatory duct obstruction can be caused by a variety of factors, including

  • Congenital abnormalities: Some men are born with abnormalities in their reproductive system, which can lead to a blockage in the ejaculatory ducts.
  • Cysts: Presence of prostatic cyst or paramedian cysts can result in ejaculatory duct obstruction.
  • Infections: Certain infections, such as prostatitis or sexually transmitted infections or tuberculosis can cause scarring or inflammation that can lead to a blockage in the ejaculatory ducts.
  • Trauma: Trauma to the reproductive system can cause damage to the ejaculatory ducts, leading to a blockage.

Diagnosis & Treatment

A physical examination, semen analysis, and imaging tests like ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging are commonly used in the diagnosis process (MRI). Cystoscopy may be required in some circumstances to confirm the diagnosis.

The underlying reason and degree of the obstruction will determine the best course of treatment for ejaculatory duct occlusion. In some circumstances, an underlying infection may be treated with antibiotics. In order to get pregnant in some circumstances, assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF/ICSI) may be required.

Procedure

A cystoscope, a tiny telescope-like device, is often inserted into the urethra and into the ejaculatory ducts during the surgery, which is typically carried out while the patient is under general anesthesia. A tiny wire loop is utilized to clear the obstruction after the cystoscope is in position, allowing the sperm to easily flow during ejaculation.

Recovery

The TURED treatment is a rather short one, and an endoscopic operation, usually taking under an hour. There is no cut or stitch. The recovery period is similarly brief; most patients can return to their regular activities in a day or two. TURED normally has few adverse effects, the most frequent of which are minor discomfort, transient urination difficulties, and a slight risk of infection.

Benefits

For men with ejaculatory duct obstruction, TURED is a successful therapy option and a minimally invasive alternative to conventional surgical procedures. Since it is frequently done as an outpatient procedure, patients can go home the same day.

A trained urologist or reproductive specialist should be consulted if you or your partner are experiencing infertility because of ejaculatory duct obstruction in order to assess whether TURED is the best course of action for you. While it might not be appropriate for all men, it is an effective choice for individuals who want to establish a family but are having trouble getting pregnant because of a blockage in the reproductive tract.