• What to Expect from General Anesthesia

    General anesthesia is used for many types of surgeries, including vasectomy reversals . This type of anesthesia renders patients completely unconscious so that they do not experience any discomfort or retain any memories of the procedure. Placing a patient under general anesthesia typically involves administering a combination of intravenous and inhaled anesthetics. If you’re anticipating having general anesthesia for your vasectomy reversal, you should discuss the potential risks with your doctor.

    Preparations

    Since general anesthesia involves more risks than conscious sedation, your doctor will need your full health history. Be sure to inform your doctor if you’ve previously been anesthetized and if you experienced an adverse reaction to it. Discuss all pills you may be taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins. Let the doctor know about any allergies or other medical conditions you may have, and advise him or her if you smoke. These precautions are necessary for your own safety. Your doctor will instruct you to discontinue consuming food and all liquids after a certain point, which is usually midnight on the evening before the surgery. If you need to take any medications, ask your doctor if you can take them with a very small sip of water.

    Procedure

    When you’re ready to be placed under, the anesthesiologist will administer the medications through an intravenous (IV) line and/or through a mask placed over your mouth and nose. The doctor will likely give you muscle relaxants, which makes it easier for your airway to tolerate the tube that may be inserted to facilitate your respiration. The entire time that you’re asleep, your vital signs will be closely monitored and your medications or fluids will be adjusted as needed.

    Recovery

    It can take a while to fully wake up, but you won’t be aware of the passage of time. You’ll continue to be closely monitored until you’re fully awake. For the rest of the day, you should rest quietly and take frequent sips of water. It’s common to experience dry mouth, nausea, sore throat, hoarseness, and sleepiness.

    When you become a patient of Dr. Joshua Green’s clinic, you’ll receive all of the information you need to make a decision and prepare for your infertility procedure in Sarasota. The Center for Vasectomy Reversal can be reached at (941) 894-6428. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns about your upcoming vasectomy reversal.

  • Possible Causes of Post-Vasectomy Pain Syndrome

    It’s often thought that the sole reason for undergoing a vasectomy reversal is to restore fertility and start or grow a family. However, men who have not changed their minds about family planning might still have cause to consult a vasectomy reversal surgeon. The reason is post-vasectomy pain syndrome, which has proven elusive both in terms of definitive diagnosis and treatment. Post-vasectomy pain syndrome is defined as chronic or intermittent scrotal pain that persists for at least three months.

    Clinicians are still looking for ways of definitively identifying the possible causes, but it is thought that the chronic pain may have multiple causes. It might be the result of nerve impingement that occurred during the original surgery. For instance, the scrotal and spermatic cord nerve structures may have sustained damage and there may be an issue with the pressure caused by the obstructed vas and epididymis.

    If you’ve been suffering from post-vasectomy pain syndrome, you can turn to Dr. Joshua Green at the Center for Vasectomy Reversal for help. Call us at (941) 961-4581 to schedule a consult with our vasectomy reversal surgeon in Sarasota.

  • What Men Should Know About IVF

    Some men initially resist the idea of trying in vitro fertilization (IVF) because it can sometimes feel emasculating to admit that infertility is an issue. Others may assume that assisted reproduction isn’t even an option if a vasectomy reversal has failed. But both of these assumptions interfere with the ultimate goal of conceiving a child. For credible information about resolving male infertility, men can turn to a vasectomy reversal surgeon.

    You might still need to undergo surgical sperm retrieval.

    Most men are familiar with the concept of ejaculating into a collection cup to provide sperm that will be used to fertilize eggs in a laboratory. But for many men, surgical sperm retrieval is necessary. After sperm are produced in the testicles, they depart via the epididymis, which is a coiled tube. The epididymis is connected to the prostate via a tube called the vas deferens. The vas deferens forms the ejaculatory duct with a seminal vesicle. Normally, these structures allow sperm to mix with other fluids to form the semen that is then ejaculated. A few medical problems can occur that prevent sperm from mixing into the semen. If this applies to you, you may need to have a surgeon extract sperm directly from the testicles or the epididymis tubes.

    The IVF cycles will be incredibly stressful for both of you.

    Many men are unprepared for the rollercoaster of emotions that accompany a typical IVF cycle. It’s possible to switch from feeling incredibly hopeful to feeling devastated in the amount of time it takes a pregnancy test to show results. As stressful as the experience is for you, you should remember that your partner is having a more difficult time. Show your love and support.

    Following a healthy lifestyle is still important.

    After making the decision to have surgical sperm retrieval and IVF, you might assume that healthy lifestyle choices are no longer important. But actually, your lifestyle decisions can directly influence the health of your sperm. Until you get a positive pregnancy test, you should avoid alcohol, consume a healthy diet, and avoid activities that can overheat your reproductive region.

    Even if you’ve previously had a failed vasectomy reversal, a skilled surgeon may be able to restore your fertility. Contact Dr. Green at the Center for Vasectomy Reversal at (941) 961-4581 and learn more about our infertility procedures in Sarasota. We extend accommodating services to out-of-town patients.

  • After Your Vasectomy Reversal

    Most men who undergo vasectomy reversals report that the recovery isn’t as uncomfortable as they had imagined. However, it’s still important to carefully follow the post-operative instructions of your vasectomy reversal surgeon. After the procedure, you can minimize pain and swelling by applying ice packs to the scrotum and by taking pain medicine as directed. You must also avoid any type of sexual activity for three weeks.

    You can learn more about the typical recovery from a vasectomy reversal when you watch this brief animation. It discusses the scrotal support, which you must wear for 30 days. It also advises men to follow the instructions of the doctor regarding the use of blood-thinning medications and supplements.

    When you become a patient of Dr. Joshua Green at the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, you will receive all the guidance and information you need for a smooth recovery after your procedure . Call Dr. Green’s office in Sarasota at (941) 961-4581 if you have any questions before or after your vasectomy reversal.

  • Common Concerns Women Have About Vasectomy Reversals

    Sometimes, male infertility occurs by choice. If your significant other previously had a vasectomy, but now both of you want to have a child, there are other options available than adoption. It may still be possible to have biological children after your partner undergoes a vasectomy reversal. Although he’s the one having the surgery, you also have an important role to play in the decision-making process. Offer to accompany your partner to the clinic and discuss the matter together.

    Being an Older Parent

    Many men who decide to have a vasectomy reversal are past their reproductive prime, but this doesn’t mean that they cannot father healthy children. These days, more couples are conceiving their first child or additional children at increasingly older ages. However, it is important to realize that the highest vasectomy reversal success rates are associated with the shortest length of time between the original surgery and the reversal. If you and your partner are considering having children, it’s best not to delay the reversal for too long.

    Resuming Sexual Activity

    Another common concern women may have is in regards to sexual activity after the procedure. Men must refrain from all types of sexual activity for at least three weeks after having a vasectomy reversal. However, you won’t be able to get pregnant right away. It can take three months or longer for sperm to be present in the ejaculate.

    Facilitating Recovery

    You might be concerned about your partner’s recovery after the procedure. After a vasectomy reversal, your significant other will likely experience discomfort for the first 24 to 48 hours. This can be managed with pain medications. You can help him recover from the procedure by offering ice packs to minimize the swelling.

    When you and your partner consult Dr. Joshua Green at the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, you can expect that all of your questions and concerns about vasectomy reversals will be thoroughly addressed. In Sarasota, Dr. Green has developed a sterling reputation for his skill as a vasectomy reversal surgeon and his personalized attention to each patient. Contact our office today at (941) 961-4581.

  • Choosing the Right Anesthesia for Your Reversal

    When planning your vasectomy reversal, one important decision your surgeon will discuss with you is anesthesia. Dr. Green makes choices about anesthesia on a case-by-case basis, depending on the patient’s overall health, the nature of the procedure, and the patient’s preference. You can be confident that Dr. Green will ensure that you are completely comfortable throughout the vasectomy reversal and will help you choose the right anesthesia for your needs.

    For patients who prefer to have the minimum amount of anesthesia possible, a vasectomy reversal can be performed under local anesthesia. However, because it is necessary to stay absolutely still for four hours for the surgery, many patients prefer a more complete level of sedation. For these patients, Dr. Green will discuss intravenous sedation, general anesthesia, and spinal anesthesia.

    By performing vasectomy reversal procedures in an outpatient surgery center, Dr. Green and the Center for Vasectomy Reversal can safely provide patients with any kind of anesthesia necessary. If you are considering a vasectomy reversal in Sarasota , schedule an appointment by calling (941) 961-4581.

  • Starting a Family After a Vasectomy Reversal

    The motivation to start or grow a family is what leads most patients to seek a vasectomy reversal. Although vasectomy reversals can be extremely effective, there are many other things to consider when getting a vasectomy reversal with the goal of achieving a pregnancy. Even after a successful reversal, there are still reasons that pregnancy may be difficult, so discussing your goals with your surgeon is important. Here are the facts you need to know.

    Reversal isn’t immediate.

    After a vasectomy reversal, sperm does not become present in the semen immediately. The time it takes for the ejaculate to contain sperm varies from patient to patient. Your surgeon may recommend screening your semen six weeks after surgery for the presence of sperm and will repeat the screening periodically if no sperm is seen. For most men, sperm return to the semen within a few months of the procedure, but for some men, it can take a year or more. Pregnancy will not be possible until sperm are in the ejaculate fluid.

    Repeat reversals may be necessary,

    Sometimes, scar tissue develops along the pathway the sperm travels because of the surgery, which can cause a blockage that prevents sperm from reaching the semen. When this occurs, sometimes it is necessary to repeat the reversal surgery to avoid the area where scar tissue is present. In other cases, the reason for surgical failure may not be obvious, but repeating the reversal can be successful.

    Male infertility isn’t the only factor.

    After male infertility is corrected with a vasectomy reversal, fertility issues in the woman can make pregnancy impossible. Factors such as age and gynecological conditions can interfere with female fertility, so that pregnancy isn’t possible even after a successful vasectomy reversal. Your surgeon may recommend that both parties get screened for fertility problems if pregnancy doesn’t occur in a reasonable amount of time after a successful vasectomy reversal.

    Dr. Green at the Center for Vasectomy Reversal works with each couple individually to help them achieve their goal of starting a family. Talk to Dr. Green in Sarasota to see if a vasectomy reversal is right for you. Make an appointment today by calling (941) 961-4581.

  • Exploring Sperm Retrieval Techniques

    When determining the appropriate sperm retrieval technique to use for a patient, the first thing your doctor will determine is if your inability to conceive is caused by a low sperm count or by a blockage that is preventing normal levels of sperm from traveling through the reproductive system. These causes of male infertility require very different treatments.

    Watch this video to learn about the different sperm retrieval techniques your doctor may consider, based on the cause of your fertility issues. MESA, TESE, and MicroTESE are just a few of the options.

    At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal , Dr. Green provides comprehensive treatment for male infertility in Sarasota, including vasectomy reversals. Set up an appointment for a consultation today by calling (941) 961-4581.

  • Determining if Your Vasectomy Reversal Was Successful

    Vasectomy reversal success rates depend on a wide range of factors, including time since the original vasectomy procedure. When you schedule a vasectomy reversal at the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, Dr. Green will discuss your specific case with you so you understand the personal factors that will contribute to the success of your procedure. After surgery, there are a few different ways to determine if your procedure was successful. Here are some of the indicators your vasectomy has been successfully reversed.

    Pregnancy

    Pregnancy is naturally an indicator of a successful vasectomy reversal. A pregnancy shows that sperm has successfully moved through the reproductive system and that there is not scar tissue to form a blockage that could impede the movement of sperm. Although reversing male infertility through vasectomy reversal is the goal of most reversal procedures, not achieving a pregnancy is not necessarily an indicator that the reversal has failed. It is possible for sperm to be present in the ejaculate but pregnancy still remain elusive for a number of factors, including fertility problems with the female partner. When a pregnancy does occur, however, you can be confident of a successful reversal.

    Semen Analysis

    Six to eight weeks after most vasectomy reversals, surgeons evaluate the patient’s semen under a microscope to look for the presence of sperm. If sperm is not present, it does not mean that the reversal has been unsuccessful. Some men can take a year or more to begin to have sperm in their semen again. Your surgeon may recommend periodic testing to look for sperm. If sperm is not present in the semen after a certain amount of time, your surgeon may recommend making another attempt at the reversal. This allows your surgeon to ensure that no scar tissue is blocking the sperm and to make any necessary adjustments if scar tissue is present.

    Dr. Green and the Center for Vasectomy Reversal is committed to helping patients attain their goals of starting a family with reversal surgeries and other solutions for male infertility. To make an appointment with Dr. Green in Sarasota , please call (941) 961-4581.

  • Making the Decision to Have a Vasectomy Reversal

    During a vasectomy, the vas deferens are cut and sealed; because these tiny tubes transport sperm from the testicles to the penis, this process is meant to eliminate the possibility of pregnancy through sexual intercourse. If you are considering a vasectomy reversal procedure to restore your ability to have children, there are many factors to consider. While a vasectomy reversal is a personal decision, discussing your desires and concerns with your partner and your vasectomy reversal surgeon can help you make the decision that is best for you.

    Your Family

    Vasectomy is most often performed as a sterilization procedure when a couple is through having children; thus, the most common reason that couples opt to reverse a vasectomy is the desire to have more children naturally. Whether you and your partner have simply changed your minds or you have remarried and wish to have children with your new spouse, reversing your vasectomy can make this possible. If you and your partner have discussed your options and agree that you are ready to have more children, a vasectomy reversal should be your next step.

    Your Age

    Age plays an important role in fertility ; while men can maintain fertility through their 70s, women typically experience a decline in fertility beginning in their 40s. Before considering a vasectomy reversal, it may be beneficial to have your partner tested for fertility, particularly if she is nearing or past the age of 40. If you need fertility assistance beyond vasectomy reversal to conceive a child, undergoing this procedure may not be the best solution to grow your family. Alternatives such as ISI and in-vitro fertilization might be more ideal. However, if infertility in your partner is not a worry, vasectomy reversal will restore your ability to have more children in the future. Most couples can achieve pregnancy within one year of vasectomy reversal.

    If you’re thinking about vasectomy reversal in Sarasota, Dr. Joshua Green of the Center for Vasectomy Reversal and Male Infertility can help you weigh the factors involved in this decision. You can visit our website to find out more about vasectomy reversals and their benefits, or give us a call at (941) 961-4581.