Vasectomy reversal

Vasectomy reversal is surgery to undo a vasectomy. During the procedure, a surgeon reconnects each tube (vas deferens) that carries sperm from a testicle into the semen. After a successful vasectomy reversal, sperm are again present in the semen, and you may be able to get your partner pregnant.

Deciding to have a vasectomy reversal may happen for several reasons, including loss of a child, a change of heart or remarriage, or to treat chronic testicular pain after vasectomy.

Almost all vasectomies can be reversed. However, this doesn't guarantee success in conceiving a child. Vasectomy reversal can be attempted even if several years have passed since the original vasectomy — but the longer it has been, the less likely it is that the reversal will work. Vasectomy reversal rarely leads to serious complications. Risks include: Bleeding within the scrotum. This can lead to a collection of blood (hematoma) that causes painful swelling. You can reduce the risk of hematoma by following your doctor's instructions to rest, use scrotal support and apply ice packs after surgery. Ask your doctor if you need to avoid aspirin or other types of blood-thinning medication before and after surgery. Infection at the surgery site. Although very uncommon, infections are a risk with any surgery and may require treatment with antibiotics. Chronic pain. Persistent pain after vasectomy reversal is uncommon.

When considering vasectomy reversal, here are a few things to think about: Vasectomy reversal may be expensive, and your insurance might not cover it. Find out about costs ahead of time. Vasectomy reversals are generally most successful when they're done by a surgeon who is trained in and uses microsurgical techniques, including those that make use of a surgical microscope. The procedure is most successful when performed by a surgeon who does the procedure regularly and who has done the procedure many times. The procedure occasionally requires a more complex type of repair, known as a vasoepididymostomy. Make sure that your surgeon is able to perform this procedure if it's required. When choosing a doctor, don't be afraid to ask questions about how many vasectomy reversals the doctor has done, the type of techniques used and how often the vasectomy reversals have resulted in pregnancy. Also ask about the risks and potential complications of the procedure.