Vas deferens endoscopy (vasoscopy) : a new diagnostic tool?

Purpose: To assess whether an experimental endoscopic study of the vasa deferentia is feasible. Patients and Methods: Endoscopic study of the seminal tracts was carried out during three vasectomies performed prior to open prostatectomy. A flexible endoscope, 0.56 mm in diameter, with a depth of field of 5 mm and a 3000 fiberoptic light source was used for the procedure. Results: Endoscopy was possible for the inguinoscrotal segment of the vas deferens. The curvature at the opening of the internal inguinal ring proved impassable. Conclusions: Endoscopy of the vas deferens is possible with a 0.56-mm flexible endoscope, but because of the extreme curvature of the vas at the inguinal ring, the complete vas cannot be evaluated in an antegrade manner.