What is the Impact of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy on Semen Parameters? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Issue 1 (January 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Radfar, Mohammad H.; Simforoosh, Nasser; Sotoudeh, Mehdi; Ramezani, Mehdi H.; Mollakoochakian, Mohammad J.; Nikravesh, Maryam; Shemshaki, Hamidreza
• Is Part Of: Urologia journal. Volume 84:Issue 1(2018)
• Page Start: 28
• Page End: 34
• Publication Date: 2017-01
• Subjects: ESWL -- hematospermia -- motility -- parameters -- sperm concentration; Urology -- Periodicals; 616.6005
• DOI: 10.5301/uro.5000205
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0391-5603

Abstract

Background: Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is an important tool for the management of urolithiasis. The effects of shockwaves on tissues are established. The aim of this meta-analysis is to evaluate the microscopic semen characteristics of young men before and after ESWL treatment for lower ureteral calculi. Methods: Literature searches were performed following the Cochrane guidelines. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis that included six trials that investigated the effects of ESWL on semen parameters, including sperm concentration, motility, and hematospermia. Meta-analyses were performed using fixed and random-effects models with tests for publication bias and heterogeneity. Results: Significant worsening was detected in sperm concentration and motility after ESWL between case and control groups (mean difference -17.23, 95% confidence interval -22.53 to -11.93, p<0.00001, mean difference -10.82, 95% confidence interval -18.56 to -3.07, p = 0.006). Rate of microscopic and macroscopic hematospermia was significantly higher after ESWL between case and control groups [risk ratio (RR) 40.00, 95% confidence interval 10.11-158.30, p<0.00001, RR 14.33, 95% confidence interval 2.82-72.90, p = 0.001]. All parameters recovered after 3 months. Conclusions: This study showed sperm concentration, motility, and rate of hematospermia (microscopic and macroscopic) were affected by ESWL that was used for the treatment of lower ureteral stone. Long-term studies with a focus on male fertility (i.e., pregnancy rates) after ESWL are warranted.