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This procedure undoes vasectomy, to reconnect the vas deferens to the testicle.  Although successful with most men, vasectomy reversals do not always work.  For this reason, it is very important that a man thoughtfully consider the consequences of vasectomy before proceeding with the surgery.

The success rate of vasectomy reversal has been linked to the length of time between the initial vasectomy and the reversal surgery.  The procedure rarely has serious side effects or complications, but one of the more common is bleeding within the scrotum for a short time after the surgery.

By strictly following your doctor’s instructions after surgery, you can reduce your risk of this complication.  As with most surgeries, there is a risk of infection at the site of the surgery.  A less common side effect is known as sperm granuloma.  This condition is caused when sperm enter the scrotum after vasectomy reversal and trigger the immune system to form an enflamed mass.  These can be, but are not always, a sign that the surgery was not successful.

It is important to note that vasectomy reversal surgery is not covered by some insurance providers. Before surgery, doctors may suggest the patient stop taking blood thinning medicines, like aspirin or ibuprofen to reduce the chance of bleeding.

There are two approaches for vasectomy reversal.  Vasovasostomy refers to a procedure in which the vas deferens, the tube that was cut during the original vasectomy, are reconnected to one another, allowing sperm to reach the testicles once again.

Vasoepididymostomy is procedure in which the vas deferens are attached directly to each testicle.  This procedure has a lower success rate and is most likely an alternative if vasovasostomy is not an option. Both procedures are conducted under a local or general anesthesia.

After surgery, it is important to identify symptoms of complication with the vasectomy reversal.  Fever, swelling, trouble urinating or a marble-sized lump in the scrotum can indicate complication and are cause to contact a doctor.

About six weeks after the reversal procedure, a doctor will test the semen for sperm count in order to determine whether or not it was successful.  If the procedure was unsuccessful, patients may have a sperm blockage that was not identified during surgery or if one occurs after the surgery.  In vitro fertilization, or other assisted reproductive technology (ART), may be successful after an unsuccessful vasectomy reversal.

The Jackson Clinic Urologists offer services to patients all over West Tennessee and throughout the Mid-South including Paducah, Jonesboro, Memphis and Tupelo. Urology services are offered at the West Forest location.

To request an appointment, call 731.422.0213 or submit your request online.