Vasectomy (sterilisation/reversal)

Vasectomy via sclerosis without scalpel

In the procedure not involving a scalpel, a special medical instrument is used to snip a small opening in the skin of the scrotum and the outer layer of the spermatic cord, in order to provide access to the two vas deferens. For this purpose, the small opening is then spread open. Now the vas deferens are pulled out a little through this hole, severed and isolated. Once the vas deferens have been returned to different layers of the scrotal tissue, the small opening in the scrotum is sealed with a plaster. Skin sutures are usually not required for this surgical method.

After the operation, the patient is advised not to have sexual intercourse for a few days and, if possible, not to resume sporting activities until two weeks after the operation.

Vasovasostomy

Vasovasostomy (i.e. vasectomy reversal) aims to reverse the vasectomy and restore the man’s natural fertility.

A microsurgical procedure is carried out to reconnect the severed vas deferens. At this point, however, it must be pointed out that it is not always possible to restore male fertility, as the individual’s sperm production may have deteriorated since the vasectomy was carried out.

A vasovasostomy begins with the surgeon exposing the severed vas deferens. Saline solution is then used to check that fluid can still flow through vas deferens. If this is successful, the separated vas deferens are joined together using microsurgical threads (which are half as thin as a strand of human hair) and a multi-layered sewing technique.

After a vasovasostomy, the patient needs to rest for several days. In addition, the scrotum needs to be cooled and elevated, and the patient must not do any heavy lifting. In order to check fertility, the doctor will draw up regular spermiograms (which present the results of an analysis of the ejaculate and are used to assess the male’s fertility).