A vasectomy reversal is a surgery that undoes a vasectomy procedure. A surgeon will reconnect each tube that carries sperm from a testicle into the semen. Once there is a vasectomy reversal, sperm will again be present in the semen.
Over the past twenty-five years, no-scalpel vasectomy reversal has become a much more common procedure. Approximately 600,000 vasectomies are performed annually in the U.S. In this overview of a vasectomy reversal Dr. Conners shares that there are many reasons that men with vasectomies choose to undergo no-scalpel no-needle vasectomy reversals — Some of them include the following: divorce, remarriage, unexpected loss of a child, improved economic conditions, the family’s decision to have another child, or the choice of a dual-career couple to begin a family.
Occasionally, the desire for a reversal many be due to medical conditions, such as persistent testicular pain resulting from long-term congestion following a vasectomy. Significant advances in micro-surgical techniques, and the use of an operating microscope to increase the surgeon’s visualization, bring greater success and predictability in no-scalpel no-needle vasectomy reversal.
Reasons for a Vasectomy Reversal
There are several reasons why an individual would choose a reversal vasectomy. There could be a change of heart about having more children or after the loss of a child. A new partner they connect with could want children of their own. Also, if there’s testicular pain after a vasectomy, an individual might want a vasectomy reversal to stop that pain.
What To Expect from the Vasectomy Procedure
In a vasectomy reversal procedure with MetroWest Urology, Micro-surgeon Dr. Conners will set you up with a consultation and medical examination. Once the consultation is complete, a surgery date will be set up. The surgery itself will take around 2.5 to 3 hours. The vasectomy reversal effective rate, in regards to pregnancy, will range from 30% to 90% depending on the type of procedure.
Dr. Conners will use local anesthesia in the area where the surgery will take place (you will be fully awake for the procedure). Medication will be supplied to help you relax and be pain-free. Dr. Connors then will carefully expose the vas deferens by making a small cut on the scrotum with a microscopic tool (no scalpels will be used). When the vas deferens are exposed and blockage is removed, a section of each cut end may be removed. The ends that are closer to the testicles will be cut until the fluid runs easier. Two of these ends will be brought together using an operating microscope, and a doctor will verify the flow of sperm. If needed, Dr. Connors will attach the vas deferens to the epididymis, the tissue behind the testicle. Sutures will be used to complete an attachment of the ends of the tubes through a two-layer connection. After both ends are successfully connected, Dr. Connors will close up the scrotum with any tiny sutures.
Vasectomy Reversal Post Surgery
In a vasectomy reversal post-surgery, Dr. Connors will cover the incision with bandages. You will put on tightfitting undergarments like an athletic supporter and apply ice for 24 to 48 hours to reduce swelling. Soreness can persist for several days. Stitches should dissolve in 7 to 10 days. When returning home, limit activities that could cause pain in the testicle area. The soreness and pain should get better after a few days to a week.
Side Effects of a Vasectomy Reversal
A vasectomy reversal can bring possible side effects. Some of these risks include bleeding or bruising within the scrotum that will cause painful swelling. However, you can reduce this risk by following the doctor’s instructions to rest, use scrotal support, and apply ice packs after surgery. Infections can also be possible after the surgery and might require antibiotics. Chronic pain can happen after a reversal vasectomy though it is uncommon. Some other symptoms could include fatigue or failure of the partner to achieve pregnancy.