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Semin Reprod Med 2019; 37(05/06): 239-245
DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1713430
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Postdeployment Fertility Challenges and Treatment in the Modern Era

Jessica A. Lentscher
1   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
,
Joshua C. Combs
1   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
,
Karrie Walker
1   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
,
Christopher M. Young
2   University of Miami, Miami, Florida
,
Rebecca Chason
3   Shady Grove Fertility Center, Annapolis, Maryland
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
25 June 2020 (online)

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Abstract

Current war-fighting environments have shifted dramatically over the past decade, and with this change, new types of injuries are afflicting American soldiers. Operative Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom have noted an increased use of sophisticated improvised explosive devices by adversaries. Injuries not frequently seen in previous conflict are dismounted complex blast injuries, which involve multiple proximal amputations, pelvic fractures, and extensive perineal wounds. Thus, an unforeseen consequence of the decreased mortality rate after these complex blast injuries is a new wave of U.S. service members facing the challenges of recovering from the catastrophic amputations and genitourinary injuries. New applications of sperm retrieval methods may be used in these specific populations, as they recover and wish to purse family-building goals. Spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and considerations unique to the female soldier are explored in this review of urologic care in wounded veterans.

Keywords

infertility - military - sperm extraction - pelvic injuries - assisted reproductive technology

Note

The views expressed herein are those of the authors and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Army, Department of Defense, the U.S. Government, or any organization listed. This work was prepared as part of his/her official duties and, as such, there is no copyright to be transferred.


 

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