Getting to Know the Details of Vasectomy Reversal Surgery

Before making the decision to undergo a vasectomy reversal to treat male infertility, you should know the steps involved in performing the procedure. A vasectomy reversal is more complicated than the original vasectomy surgery. However, it is still typically performed on an outpatient basis, which means that you will not need to stay in a hospital overnight. The procedure itself may take about two to four hours, plus some time to recover from the anesthetic. If you go forward with the surgery, you should arrange to have someone drive you home afterward.

Preparation

During your consultation with the vasectomy reversal surgeon, you’ll discuss your anesthesia options. The surgery is often performed under general anesthesia, which means you’ll be asleep. However, some patients may prefer spinal anesthesia, or regional anesthesia. Both options eliminate pain during the procedure.

Procedure

The surgeon makes small incisions on either side of the scrotum. He or she trims the ends of the vas deferens to remove scar tissue. Then, the surgeon removes vasal fluid and checks it for the presence of sperm.

Vasovasostomy

If the vasal fluid contains sperm, the surgeon will perform a vasovasostomy. This involves connecting the ends of the vas deferens with micro-sutures to allow sperm to travel through it. Then, the vas is placed in its normal position and the surgeon inserts a small drain to either side of it. These are removable the day after the surgery.

Vasoepididymostomy

If sperm is not present in the vasal fluid, the surgeon performs a vasoepididymostomy. This bypasses the blockage in the epididymal tube by connecting the upper end of the vas deferens to the epididymis.

Dr. Joshua Green can answer all of your questions about vasectomy reversals during your consultation at the Center for Vasectomy Reversal and Male Infertility. Dr. Green is a highly skilled male infertility specialist who has helped countless patients, even if they have previously had an unsuccessful vasectomy reversal performed by another physician. Call us at (941) 961-4581 today to arrange your appointment for Sarasota infertility procedures.