The changing face of the exocrine pancreas in cystic fibrosis: the correlation between pancreatic status, pancreatitis and cystic fibrosis genotype.

Objectives: The aims of this study were to determine the current pancreatic status of the entire cystic fibrosis (CF) population of Israel, to analyze the clinical characteristics of the pancreatic sufficient (PS) patients, and to characterize the correlation between pancreatic status, pancreatitis, and CF genotype.

Methods: The Israeli CF database includes 505 patients. These patients were defined as being PS or insufficient according to their fecal pancreatic elastase level or by coefficient fat absorption findings.

Role of transrectal ultrasonography in the evaluation of azoospermic men with low-volume ejaculate.

Objective: The purpose of this prospective study was to evaluate the incidence of distal ejaculatory system defects with transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) among patients evaluated for azoospermia.

Methods: Forty-two patients with low-volume ejaculate and azoospermia were evaluated by physical examination, serum follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone level determination, karyotyping, selective screening for cystic fibrosis mutations, and TRUS.

Results: On physical examination, in 29 patients (69%), either 1 (12 patients) or both (17 patients) of the vasa deferentia could not be palpated.

Effects of intravesical chemotherapy and immunotherapy on semen analysis.

Objectives: To study the effect of intravesical chemo-immunotherapy on the sperm parameters of young patients.

Methods: Twelve young male patients with superficial transitional cell carcinoma, all younger than 40 years old at surgery, were included in this prospective study. The mean patient age was 34.

[Sex reassignment surgery].

Israel is among the few countries in the world where sex reassignment surgery (SRS) is performed in public hospitals. Today, the only center performing SRS in Israel is the Sheba Medical Center. A multidisciplinary committee grants authorization permitting surgery after a follow-up period of two years.

Sonographic evidence of minimal and short-term testicular damage after testicular sperm aspiration procedures.

Objective: To evaluate ultrasonically the incidence and duration of tissue damage after testicular sperm aspiration (TESA) procedures.

Design: Prospective, nonrandomized study.

Setting: Assisted reproductive technology program.