Vasectomy Reversal

Sometimes after a vasectomy has been performed, a man decides he would like to father another child. This can often be done by reversing the process of a vasectomy.

A vasectomy involves severing the vas deferens (the tube the sperm travel through) so that the passage of sperm is stopped and their release from the body is prevented. After a vasectomy, sperm are still made but die soon after production and are absorbed by the body.

A vasectomy reversal is the process of opening and reconnecting the vas deferens on both sides. This enables the sperm to flow freely from the testes through the urethra and out of the penis during intercourse.

CONSULTATION

The physician will need meet with you and your partner to answer your questions and discuss the likelihood of restoring your fertility. There is no guarantee that if you have a vasectomy reversal that your partner will become pregnant. Many factors can affect the semen quality after reversal, the most important of which is the length of time since your original vasectomy. The more time which has passed, the lower the chance of having sperm with high enough numbers or quality to result in pregnancy.

Sometimes after a vasectomy, the body produces sperm antibodies that prevent you from fathering another child. Even though the pathways are restored by the vasectomy reversal and the sperm count returns to normal, the sperm are unable to function as before and cannot result in a pregnancy.

A vasectomy reversal has no effect on your body other than allowing sperm release. It does not affect your sex drive, your ability to have an erection or urination.

The vasectomy reversal usually lasts 1 1/2 - 3 hours. You should plan on being at Eastside Urology for 3-4 hours. You will be given a local anesthetic, but you may request a sedative as well. Our goal is to keep you relaxed and comfortable.

BEFORE THE PROCEDURE

One week prior to the procedure, stop taking aspirin, Vitamin E or products containing aspirin. Ask your doctor about any prescription blood thinning medications you may need to discontinue.

Please do your own shaving of the scrotum before arrival. Begin 1 inch above base of penis and shave the entire scrotum with a disposable razor. Shaving in a downward stroke can minimize nicks.

Please wear close fitting underwear or an athletic supporter for your comfort following the procedure.

You may bring your own music for relaxation.

Possible Risks of Vasectomy Reversal:

Infection

A single dose of an antibiotic is occasionally given by mouth to minimize this risk. Please let your doctor know if you have any allergies or drug intolerances, or if you have any artificial implants or heart valve disease. Please let your doctor know if you get any symptoms of infection after the vasectomy such as fever, persistent discomfort, swelling or redness to the scrotum. These symptoms are unusual.

Bleeding

Typically, a small amount of blood may be seen on the dressings for 24 hours after the vasectomy reversal. Please clarify with your doctor if you use aspirin, Vitamin E, or any prescription blood thinners before your vasectomy to minimize the risk of bleeding. Typically, you will be asked to hold them for 7 days prior to your procedure.

Discomfort

An anesthetic cream may be placed on the scrotum before vasectomy to minimize discomfort. An anesthetic will be injected into the skin of the scrotum. You may also ask for a mild sedative for the procedure if desired. If a sedative is given, you will need to arrange for a ride home and will have activity restrictions for 12 hours. If a sedative is used, you may also be asked not to eat or drink for 4 hours before the vasectomy. A small amount of discomfort is common for 48 hours after vasectomy reversal.

Injury to the Scrotum or Testis

Injury is extremely rare. If the vas deferens is difficult to feel or isolate, your doctor may decide to stop the vasectomy reversal before its completion for your safety and comfort. You may need to return on a later date, or may require a more general anesthetic, for the safe completion of your vasectomy reversal.

AFTER THE PROCEDURE

Care of the Incisions

The dressing may be removed after 24 hours. Keep the area dry for 24 hours, then it is okay to shower. Avoid rubbing with towels. Avoid submerging the scrotum in tub baths, hot tubs or swimming pools for one week. The skin sutures will fall off in about 3-7 days. Minimal redness may develop around the sutures and is of no concern.

Swelling

A small amount of redness and swelling may be present around the sutures but this should be of no concern. If rapid swelling occurs, call our office.

Bleeding

If a small amount of bleeding is noticeable from the suture sites, apply local pressure for 10 minutes and call if there is no improvement.

Pain

The amount of pain is variable with each person. Ice packs or a bag of frozen peas may be used, or a jock strap may help. For mild pain, use plain Tylenol (acetaminophen) 650mg every 4 hours. For more severe pain, use Advil (ibuprofen) 400-600mg three times a day. Please avoid aspirin products because of their anticoagulation properties.

Bruising

Black/blue discoloration is common and is due to a small amount of blood under the skin. This is not harmful and will usually fade in 1-2 weeks.

Physical Activity

When you return home, stay off your feet for the first 36 hours. Any discomfort you feel should be mild. Avoid heavy lifting and exercise for 14-21 days.

Sexual Activity

Sexual activity may be resumed in 30 days when the scrotal swelling and pain subside. The first few ejaculations may cause some dull ache in the testicles. This will usually ease in a few days. You may notice some blood in your semen. This is normal. You should discuss the type of work you so with your physician to make a decision about when you can return to work.

Sperm Check

It may take several months after the vasectomy reversal to begin releasing sperm. Clarify with your doctor when to start bringing in your semen sample after the procedure. Please use the containers provided or a container with a tight fitting lid.

Please call the office on the day you would like to bring in your specimen for analysis to ensure that a physician is present who can check the sample.

The basic semen analysis is provided at no-charge. If you wish to have a qualitative sperm analysis performed after the procedure, we can assist you to schedule this with the appropriate lab. You will be responsible for the charges.

FINANCIAL ARRANGEMENTS

We require payment ten days before the procedure. We accept MasterCard, Visa and cashier's check.