Vas-occlusive contraception is a form of male contraception that blocks sperm transport in the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm from the epididymis to the ejaculatory ducts. Various vas-occlusive contraceptive methods have been researched for human-use, with interest in both reversible and irreversible methods, with the purpose of finding a suitable alternative to vasectomy and possible hormonal contraceptive treatments that are currently being researched. Potential methods include clips, plugs, valves, polymers, hydrogels, and other devices. Types There are numerous vas-occlusive contraceptive methods and devices that have been researched. Outlined here are a few main categories and descriptions. Intravasal control valve (ICV) An intravasal control valve is a reversible valve implanted in the vas deferens with the ability to either inhibit or permit sperm passage depending on the position of the device. Bionyx has developed a T-shaped intravasal control valve composed of gold and stainless steel for use in humans. Through rotation, a perforated ball within the T can be used to obstruct sperm flow or allow sperm flow. Skilled microsurgery is required for the ICV implant. Chemosterilization Injection of non-toxic and sclerotic chemicals in the vas deferens can result in blockage of sperm transport due to scarring on the vas deferens wall. At least 26 different chemical combinations have been attempted to achieve sterilization. A combination of carbolic and n-butyl alpha cyanoacrylate has resulted in complete blockage of the vas deferens through adhesion to the luminal surface. This chemical combination resulted in a 96% azoospermia and a 99% pregnancy prevention eight years follow injection in humans. The scar tissue created is not always compact and successful in occluding the vas deferens, which results in the 4% azoospermia failure rate. The injection of the chemical combination of ethanol and formaldehyde also resulted in sterility in humans. However, these chemical combinations are irreversible. Vas-occlusive plugs There are two types of vas-occlusive plugs: injectable plugs and non-injectable plugs. Injection of medical polyurethane (MPU) to form a plug in the vas deferens resulted in azoospermia in 96% of men, though these result were seen 24 months after injection. Studies on over 130 men following removal of the plug within five years showed successful restoration of fertility. The Shug, short for "silicon plug", is an example of a non-injectable plug, though there is little to no research on the Shug following 2008. The Shug is composed of two silicon plugs with accompanying nylon tails