We review the literature about the impact of shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) on male reproduction.
Studies investigating the in vitro effect of shock waves on semen samples indicate that spermatozoa are vulnerable to SWL. According to animal studies, intratesticular bleeding is common, but pregnancy rates are not affected by shock waves. In the clinical setting, SWL causes an acute deterioration in sperm quality, but semen parameters return to baseline 3 months later. Long-term data on male fertility (ie, pregnancy rates) after SWL have yet to be reported and the significance of preexisting infertility has not been elucidated to date.
Written by:
Philippou P, Ralph DJ, Timoney AG. Are you the author?
Bristol Urological Institute, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, UK.
Reference: Urology. 2012 Mar;79(3):492-500.
doi: 10.1016/j.urology.2011.12.003
PubMed Abstract
PMID: 22386390
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