Vasovasostomy, normally known as “vasectomy reversal”, is a surgical approach created to restore fertility in males who have undergone/experienced a vasectomy before. This specific operation can relink the vas deferens, the tubes which carry the sperm to the urethra in penis from the testicles. Doing so will enable men to father kids again. This reversal of vasectomy operation is a small surgery. However, it needs expertise and precision, specifically in microsurgery. In this content, you will gain insights on this method. It will also offer you information on the results and what you can expect after the procedure.
Why Do Men Consider the Vasectomy Reversal?
Many men opt for the reversal of vasectomy operation due to countless reasons. Some do it because of the desire for parenthood. This decision comes up when the loss of a child, a change of heart, or remarriage takes place. In addition to that, monetary stability and progress in health also encourage a reassessment of family planning objectives. Some men also opt for the reversal operation to alleviate the severe, persistent testicular pain linked with vasectomy. This method gives the option to restore fertility and also the option to expand the family.
Vasectomy Reversal: How Is This Procedure Performed?
Apart from knowing the reversal of vasectomy definition, it is also crucial to uncover how the reversal procedure is performed. At first, the surgeon administers anaesthesia to guarantee comfort. After that, the surgeon creates tiny incisions in the scrotum. This incision will be around 2 cm to gain access to the vas deferens. Then, the surgeon detects the earlier severed ends and then eliminates all the scar tissues that might have developed since the actual vasectomy in order to restore the connection of the vas deferens.
Procedures of Vasectomy Reversal: The Types
In vasectomy reversal, you will encounter sorts of procedures, which are: vasoepididymostomy and vasovasostomy. Here is a brief explanation of both of them:
Vasoepididymostomy
This particular method is a bit complicated, and it is used when there is a blockage in the epididymis. The surgeon will directly link the vas deferens with the epididymis, dodging the blockage. This procedure needs effective identification of the enlarged tubules found in the epididymis. Doing so will guarantee a proper flow of sperm.
Vasovasostomy
This vasectomy reversal procedure is pretty common as the surgeon will just relink the ends of the vas deferens easily and directly. This technique is used when the sperm are discovered in the fluid from the vas deferens. This shows a blockage in the vas deferens. The reconnection is conducted via microsurgical method and is, at times, performed under the microscope to guarantee precision.
Side Effects of Vasectomy Reversal
The vasectomy reversal procedure might be an effective choice for males, but it also comes with specific side effects:
- Bruising and Swelling
- Sperm Granulomas
- Infection
- Hematoma and Bleeding
- Testicular Atrophy
- Chronic Pain
If you do experience the vasectomy side effects listed above, speak to a physician without delay. They can help you get relief from them by prescribing the best medication.
Complexity and Duration of the Method
The reversal of vasectomy operation is pretty complex and takes up plenty of time compared to the actual vasectomy. The reversal procedure will take 1 hour to 4 hours, as it will rely heavily on the intricacy of the situation and the surgeon’s knowledge. Using microsurgery and the requirement of precise anastomosis of the vas deferens will take more time for the surgery to end. Also, if you have the question regarding its success rate, it depends on the exact time or years since you have done the procedure of vasectomy. However, the success rate ranges between 60% to 90% for return to sperm during the ejaculation. Please note that its outcome rate starts to decline 15 years after your vasectomy.
The Post-Surgery Care and Recovery
Once the procedure is concluded, patients might experience a bit of discomfort. This can be managed by applying ice packs on the scrotum or with pain medication. The majority of the men can resume their activities in 24 hours to 48 hours and then return to their work after a week. It’s paramount to avoid sexual intercourse and laborious activities for 2 weeks to 4 weeks following the surgery to enable proper recovery.
Conclusion
The vasectomy reversal will provide men with another chance to experience their parenthood. However, this procedure needs mindful consultation and consideration with an experienced urologist. The urologist will tell what happens in a vasectomy reversal, its intricacies, and the outcomes. It will also help individuals to make correct judgements regarding their reproductive health. Although this procedure is a bit challenging, improvements in microsurgery have enhanced the success rates. This makes it an exceptional choice for men who want to regain their fertility.
