Discusses vasovasostomy, a procedure to reconnect the vas deferens tubes that were cut during a vasectomy. Covers what to expect after surgery and how well it works. Also covers risks.
Vasectomy Reversal (Vasovasostomy)
A vasectomy is considered a permanent method
birth control. Vasectomy reversal (vasovasostomy)
reconnects the tubes (vas deferens) that were cut during a
Vasectomy reversal is usually
an outpatient procedure (without an overnight stay in the hospital).
Spinal or general anesthesia is commonly used to
ensure that you stay completely still during the surgery.
chances of vasectomy reversal success depend on how much time has passed
between the vasectomy and the reversal. Over time, additional blockages can
form, and some men develop
antibodies to their own sperm.
Leads to overall pregnancy rates of greater
Has the greatest chance of success within 3 years of the
Leads to pregnancy only about 30% of the time if the
reversal is done 10 years after vasectomy.
Risks of vasectomy reversal include:
Infection at the site of
Fluid buildup in the scrotum (hydrocele) that may require
Injury to the arteries or nerves in the scrotum.
What To Think About
Before a vasectomy reversal is
done, your doctor will want to confirm that you were fertile before your
You can have tests to see whether you have sperm
antibodies in your semen before and after vasectomy reversal. If there are
sperm antibodies in your semen after surgery, your partner is unlikely to
become pregnant. In such a case, you may wish to try
in vitro fertilization with
intracytoplasmic sperm injection.
How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.