What Are the Most Effective Vasectomy Reversal Procedures and Why It is Important to Know

To better understand how a vasectomy reversal works it is often useful to first understand the procedures that are used. Here is a brief explanation of the most popular Reverse Vasectomy procedures.

The 2-layer Micro-Surgical Vasovasostomy

With this vasectomy reversal procedure, the doctor will precisely align the inner canal of the vas lining using ultra-fine surgical thread which is so thin it cannot be seen by the human eye. This vasectomy reversal procedure must be done using a microscope with high-powered magnification capabilities. If successful, this allows for a normal channel in which the sperm travel and results in the best chances for pregnancy.

For Simpler Cases:

In about 15 percent of cases, the doctor may be able to reverse the vasectomy by performing very intricate stitching. Consider this: the outer diameter of the vas deferens (also known as the sperm duct) is roughly 1/8 of an inch. The average diameter of the inner canal (this is what carries the sperm) is only about 1/70 of an inch. In order to provide the best chances of success, the doctor must precisely stitch this inner lining in such a way that it is leak-proof and must do so by using thread that is approximately 1/1000 of an inch in diameter. Once this is done, the thicker muscular wall can be stitched which is necessary in order to provide proper muscular contractions used for moving the man's sperm into the ejaculate.

In both cases, to reverse the vasectomy the doctor must be skilled at micro-surgery and must have the required medical instruments to perform the procedure. For this reason it is always best to ask about this before scheduling a vasectomy reversal procedure as many general practitioners do not have either. It should be noted that there are other less precise ways to attempt a vasectomy reversal but many of these result in failure and disappointment.

Failed Reverse Vasectomy Attempts May Be Corrected:

While failure is certainly disappointing it does not have to be the end of hope. In many cases where earlier attempts to reverse the vasectomy failed, a skilled physician may be able to correct the problem using the more precise methods what were mentioned above. The key to remember here, however, is that the new attempt must be performed by someone who has the expertise and equipment needed. Again, not all doctors who perform vasectomy reversal procedures have either the experience or the tools to do this high-level of micro-surgery.

It has been reported that the majority of failures are due to obstruction problems. This often happens at the site where the earlier attempt was made to reconnect the vas or within the area known as the epididymis which is the duct area close to the testicle.

For anyone considering a reverse vasectomy, the best advice is to consult with an expert who has the experience and access to the proper equipment before making a decision. This is the best way to avoid failure, disappointment and lost money. This professional can answer your questions as well as give you valid information as to your individual changes of success.