Vasectomy Reversal
Due to changing lifestyles, in recent years more men have asked: “Is a vasectomy reversal possible?” However, there are certain factors that need to be considered before this question can be answered. In addition, the success rate of this procedure can vary greatly from one man to the next. These factors need to be discussed between you and your partner. So this is a decision that cannot be taken lightly.
A vasectomy reversal is a surgical procedure that restores the flow of sperm through the vas deferens. This procedure is generally performed by an experienced microsurgeon who uses specialized instruments. The sutures used in vasectomy reversal are finer than human hair therefore the microsurgeon would use an operating microscope to perform the procedure.
There are two types of vasectomy reversals, namely vasovasostomy and vasoepididymostomy. With a vasovasostomy the cut ends of the vas deferens are stitched together. This procedure is the one most frequently performed.
It must be kept in mind that the success rates vary. These are the factors that affect the success rates post vasectomy:
- The age of the man
- The presence of antisperm antibodies
- Time passed since the vasectomy
- The age of the woman
A vasectomy reversal is not a procedure that we would encourage. Depending on the definition of a successful reversal, many patients will have sperm in the ejaculate after a vasectomy reversal. However, for the purpose of viability, a vast majority of ejaculates after a reversal will not result in adequate quality of sperm production for natural conception to occur. Thus alternative fertility treatments may need to be considered after the reversal procedure, if natural conception does not occur.
Sperm aspiration followed by ICSI would be the ideal treatment option in this instance. LifeArt Fertility Clinic can assist you with such fertility treatments.