Vasectomy Reversal
A vasectomy reversal is performed when a man wants to reverse his vasectomy, usually because of a change in relationship status. Very rarely it is carried out to reduce post vasectomy pain.
How successful is it?
The success of Vasectomy Reversal is dependent on a number of factors. These are
- The length of time since the vasectomy
- The amount of damage created at the time of the vasectomy and especially how close to the testicle that the vasectomy was performed.
- The age of the female partner.
- The skill of the surgeon
The success rate for getting lots of sperm, which are in good shape, is dependent on the length of time since your vasectomy. If the vasectomy was less than 2 years ago you should almost always be fertile after reversal. Under 5 years post vasectomy the success rate is high (approximately 75%), lower if 5-10 years, and only about 30% after 10 years.
Usually the degree of damage from the vasectomy is not great. If a very long segment of vas has been removed or if the site of the vasectomy was very close to the testes then reversal is much more difficult.
Female age is the most important factor in achieving a pregnancy and carrying it to term. This is because as a women ages her fertility reduces and the miscarriage rate increases.
Your surgeon should use magnification (preferably over x4), be familiar with the operation and comfortable performing it.
What happens during the operation?
Under a general anaesthetic a cut is made in the middle of the scrotum. The testes is delivered out on one side and then the other. The area of the vasectomy is identified and this portion of the vasor scar tissue is excised (cut out). The cut ends of the vas are then brought together with a micro vessel clamp and the ends are sutured together using two layers of very fine sutures. The first layer is what is called 8/0 and the second layer is typically 7/0. Local anaesthetic is placed in the wound and then once both sides have been done the testes are placed back in the scrotum and the muscle layers and skin of the scrotum are closed up. If extensive damage to the vas has occured then anastomosis to the epididymis can be done, however, this has a much lower chance of success and is not ideal.
What is the cost?
The cost of the operation is fixed. As a result of an agreement between myself, the anaesthetist and the hospital costs are kept as reasonable as possible with no hidden or additional fees, if for example the case takes longer than expected. Fees must be paid prior to the surgery and are usually paid on the day of surgery prior to the operation. Operations are performed at Angelsea hospital (http://www.angleseahospital.co.nz. Please phone my secretary for a price on 078580753.
How do I Pay?
Payment for the anaesthetist and myself can be made by bank transfer prior to the operation or by credit card at the rooms on the day of the surgery. Payment to the hospital is carried out at Anglesea hospital on the day of the surgery.
How long do I need to take off work?
You should expect to take one week off work to recover from the surgery.
What happens after?
You will go home on the same day as the surgery. You cannot drive a motor vehicle for 24 hours after surgery so please bring a driver with you. All sutures are dissolving. Review in clinic or by phone 2 weeks post-surgery. A semen analysis is done at 3 and 6 months post-surgery.