The Daddy & Family Magazine Winter 2014 Issue #1 | Page 16

Vasectomy:

Can I Reverse It?

By Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, MD

As a urologist that specializes in male infertility I get countless questions about vasectomies and vasectomy reversals every day: Does it work? Is it painful? Can I have a baby “naturally” again? Are there risks? Am I too old? Many men—and women—ask these questions because they are concerned about themselves or their spouse. One of their main concerns is how the procedure will affect their ability to have a child again or relieve post vasectomy pain. As a doctor, my goal is to give my patients the best care and to support them throughout treatment. Health education is part of this process. If you’ve ever wondered exactly what happens during a vasectomy or have no idea what a reversal procedure is, here are answers to those questions and more.

What is a Vasectomy?

A vasectomy is a great form of birth control. It involves dividing the vas deferens, the sperm duct that transports sperm from the testicle to the ejaculatory ducts. This procedure can be done several ways (clips, no clips, ties, cauterization, no scapel, etc). Regardless of how it is done the whole goal is to disrupt the passage of sperm. Vasectomy does not affect your ability to make sperm. It should not affect your ability to get erections. You will still have semen in your ejaculate which will be void of sperm. Vasectomy does not prevent the spread of sexual transmitted diseases. It is important to note that even in the best hands the vasectomy may fail in 1/1000 cases.

in the best hands the vasectomy may fail in 1/1000 cases.

What is Vasectomy Reversal?

This process involves reconnecting the vas deferens after a vasectomy. The vas is a very small tubular structure measuring 3-5mm. Because we are dealing with small, delicate structures, a reversal requires microsurgical techniques using fine suture. There are two ways to reconnect the tubes: simple and complex. Simple reversal is when the vas is reconnected where it was divided. Complex reversal is when one end of the vas is connected to the epididymis, the organ close to the testicle where sperm mature. Whether you get a simple or complex reversal depends on when you underwent a vasectomy, fluid seen during the procedure and your surgeon’s expertise.

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