Vasectomy Reversal
Vasectomy Reversal
What is a vasectomy reversal (microsurgical reconstruction)?
Microsurgical vasectomy reversal is an outpatient procedure which re-establishes the continuity of the vas deferens. It should always be considered when natural pregnancy is possible because it optimizes the opportunity for conception. In other words, it allows for pregnancy each month through intercourse and the opportunity for more children in the future.
What factors influence the success of reconstruction?
Number of years since vasectomy
Prior surgeries in the scrotum or groin region
Current state of health, body mass index, and hormone balance
Lifestyle factors: smoking, alcohol use, marijuana use
Treatment Options for Vasectomy Reversal
Reconstruction Only
The advantage of a microsurgical reconstruction includes restoration of sperm to the ejaculate which allows for natural conception. If future IVF attempts are planned, the ejaculated sperm can also be used for planned cycles.
Reconstruction + Aspiration
During the microsurgical reconstruction procedure, Dr. Pan will also harvest sperm directly from the testis. This option incurs no additional charge. The harvested testicular sperm can serve as a source for IVF should the reconstruction fail. This combined option may also be useful for the older couple who are already planning for an IVF cycle, as the male partner will not have to wait for sperm to return to the ejaculate. Sperm banks, however, will charge a fee for freezing and storing the sperm.
Aspiration Only
A testicular sperm aspiration can be performed in the clinic under local anesthesia. Sperm harvested in this fashion can only be used with IVF. One IVF cycle, unfortunately, does not equal one pregnancy. Pursuing in vitro fertilization as a sole approach may be a costly approach for the couple, especially if multiple children are desired.