Laparoscopic Implantation of Electrodes for Stimulation of the Hypogastric Nerve and the Vas Deferens in Dogs

Abstract

The minimal invasiveness of laparoscopy prompted us to investigate its use for placement of electrodes for stimulation of the hypogastric nerve and the vas deferens. In an acute canine model, pressure changes in the vas deferens secondary to electrostimulation were recorded. The laparoscopic approach included four ports. Monopolar cuff electrodes were placed around the hypogastric nerve and the vas deferens, and the leads of both were pulled through the abdominal wall. After multiple percutaneous stimulations (20mAmp., 20Hz. and 200 microsecond pulse width), the abdomen was opened through a midline incision to check the position of the electrodes. Electrostimulation was repeated with the abdomen open.Electrostimulation of both the hypogastric nerve and vas deferens resulted in marked pressure rises in the vas. These increases were similar in response to both surface and percutaneous stimulation. We thus believe that laparoscopic implantation of electrodes followed by percutaneous preliminary stimulation of the superior hypogastric plexus or the vas deferens may be a viable future approach to anejaculation.