What Are the Differences Between the V-V Procedure and the V-E Procedure?

Many men turn to vasectomy reversal procedures later in life after realizing that they do in fact wish to start a family. Vasectomy reversal is a safe and effective way to reverse voluntary male infertility procedures without the need for open or invasive surgery and significant amounts of downtime. The two most commonly performed methods used are the vaso-vasostomy procedure and the vaso-epididymostomy procedure. This article will take a closer look at the differences between these two procedures.

Vaso-vasostomy

The vaso-vasostomy procedure, also known as the V-V procedure, is an outpatient procedure in which a small incision is made in each side of the upper scrotum in order to identify the site of the original vasectomy. After the scar tissue is removed, the abdominal side of the vas is flushed in order to identify patency, while the testicular side of the vas is inspected for healthy sperm. The vas can be reconnected via microscopic magnification as long as sperm is present or if the fluid is clear and freely flowing. The procedure typically takes between two-and-a-half to four hours, but the time will vary from patient to patient.

Vaso-epididymostomy

In the event that the fluid coming from the testicular side of the vas is thick and pasty rather than clear and free-flowing, your vasectomy reversal surgeon will perform a vaso-epididymostomy instead. Also known as the V-E procedure, this method involves the attachment of the vas to a tubule within the epididymis where the sperm mature, allowing the sperm to flow without obstruction.

The best way to determine which procedure method is right for your needs is to consult with your vasectomy reversal doctor. Call Dr. Joshua Green with the Center For Vasectomy Reversal at (941) 225-2317 today to set up an initial consultation. You can also visit us on the Web for more information about Microscopic Epididymal Sperm Aspiration for use with in vitro fertilization.