Understanding the Vasectomy Reversal Process

Vasectomies are considered a permanent form of birth control, but that doesn’t mean the procedure (or its effects) or irreversible. In the United States, approximately 600,000 men have vasectomies every year. Of those who undergo the procedure, about 5% will opt to have the procedure reversed. Vasectomy reversal, also known as a vasovasostomy, is a minimally invasive procedure that can be completed in as little as two hours when performed by a skilled vasectomy reversal surgeon in Sarasota . If you are considering a vasovasostomy, continue reading to learn more about the vasectomy reversal process.

Sperm Analysis

There are actually two types of procedures that can reverse a vasectomy: vasovasostomy and vasoepidydmostomy. It typically is not possible for your surgeon to know in advance which procedure will be performed, which is why the first step in reversing a vasectomy is to extract fluid from the severed end of the vas deferens closest to the testicle and examine for its appearance and the presence of sperm.

Vasovasostomy

If sperm are present or the fluid is clear, your surgeon will likely proceed with the vasovasostomy procedure. During this procedure, the surgeon will make a small incision directly over the vasectomy scar. He will then locate the severed ends of the vas deferens and recut to create clean edges that are then sewn back together.

Vasoepididymostomy

If the fluid contains no sperm, or if it appears creamy and thick, it indicates to your surgeon that there is a blockage in the epididymis. This obstruction may result from infections or trauma, or may be secondary to long-standing obstruction that has resulted in damage to the epididymal tube. A vasoepidydmostomy is more technically demanding, as it requires the surgeon to bypass the blockage in order to surgically reconnect the vas deferens.

Dr. Joshua Green at the Center for Vasectomy Reversal and Male Infertility in Sarasota, FL has performed hundreds of vasectomy reversals over years of clinical practice. If you would like to consult with one of the leading vasectomy reversal surgeons in Florida, call Dr. Green’s office at (941) 961-4581.