Transurethral seminal vesiculoscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of intractable seminal vesiculitis

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the efficacy and safety of transurethral seminal vesiculoscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of intractable seminal vesiculitis. Methods: This prospective observational study enrolled patients with intractable seminal vesiculitis. The transurethral seminal vesiculoscope was inserted into the bilateral ejaculatory ducts and seminal vesicles, via the urethra. The ejaculatory ducts and seminal vesicles were visualized to confirm the diagnosis of seminal vesiculitis and to determine the cause of the disease. The seminal vesicles were washed repeatedly using 0.90% (w/v) sodium chloride before a 0.50% (w/v) levofloxacin solution was injected into the seminal vesicles. Results: A total of 114 patients participated in the study and 106 patients underwent bilateral seminal vesiculoscopy. Six patients with postoperative painful ejaculation were treated successfully with oral antibiotics and α-blockers. Two patients with postoperative epididymitis were treated successfully with a 1-week course of antibiotics. Haematospermia was alleviated in 94 of 106 patients (89%), and their pain and discomfort had either disappeared or had been obviously relieved, following treatment. Conclusion: Transurethral seminal vesiculoscopy is effective for diagnosing and treating intractable seminal vesiculitis. © The Author(s) 2014.