5 Facts Men Need to Know About Vasectomy Reversal

Vasectomy is a form of male contraception. It is achieved through surgically cutting or sealing the vas deferens, which transport sperm from the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct during ejaculation. The result is that during ejaculation, the semen ejaculated does not contain sperm. Vasectomies are so efficient in preventing conception that for a long time they have been considered as a form of sterilization. The reality, however, is that with modern medicine, a vasectomy does not have to equal sterilization. It can be reversed through a procedure called a Vasectomy Reversal.

Facts about Vasectomy Reversal

A vasectomy reversal aims at rejoining the cut ends of the epididymis or unblocking them if they had been sealed. Important facts include:

1. It is a precise but outpatient procedure. A vasectomy takes about two hours. The patient can go home the same day. The fact that it is an outpatient procedure, however, should not take away from the fact that vasectomy reversal is a very precise operation that makes use of micro surgical techniques. The sutures made are extremely fine.

2. High success rate. Vasectomy reversal procedures are reported to have a success rate of over 90 percent. Even so, patients should appreciate that the rate of conception will be influenced by factors beyond themselves, such as the fertility of their partner. As such, conception may not happen immediately.

3. The procedure. A vasectomy reversal involves making two incisions on the side of the scrotum through which the vas deferens can be accessed. The surgeon then cuts open the tied or sealed ends and sutures them together.

4. Age of the vasectomy may affect success rate. Reports indicate that vasectomies done not more than ten years ago have the highest success rates. The success rate starts to decline when the vasectomy was performed more than fifteen years ago.

5. Short recovery period. Due to its relatively minor nature, a vasectomy reversal heals quickly and requires little after care. Patients, however, are advised to wait at least six weeks before they return to having sex.

The success of a vasectomy reversal requires almost pinpoint accuracy. A patient, therefore, should place a great deal of weight on the experience and training of the urological specialist or surgeon who does the procedure. St. Pete Urology has a strong track record of experienced specialists who can work with the individual in determining what is the best plan for him and answer questions or concerns. For more information, visit the St Pete Urology website.