The Things That You Absolutely Must Know Before You go For Vasectomy Reversal

by Seomul Evans

Posted on Wednesday 14th of September 2011

Vasectomy reversal is a microsurgical procedure that is conducted with the aim to reverse the results of a vasectomy; in other words the reversal procedure aims t restore fertility in men who would like to experience the joy of fatherhood again. Even though vasectomy is not an artificial form of contraception that can be changed at a whim, there are several reasons why people may elect to go through the procedure such as a change in attitude, being with a different partner in the present, divorce, the death of a child and a change the financial circumstances of the household. Since like all other surgical procedures vasectomy reversal also has its fair share of pros and cons; it is advised that you as much information as you can about the procedure before you take the plunge.

What is Vasectomy Reversal?

A vasectomy reversal is surgery that helps to backtrack the effects of a vasectomy. The procedure involves the suturing of the two severed ends of the vas deferens; these are the tubes that carry the sperm from the testicles to the prostate glands from they are subsequently sent to the urogenital opening. Once the tubes are reconnected; the flow of sperms is renewed. The procedure is known as vasovasostomy. However, another form of reversal surgery may be used in case of complications such as blockage or increased pressure in the epididymis due to the formation of scar tissue. In this case a procedure called vasoepididymostomy is conducted; through the surgery, the doctor attempts to join one end of the vas deferens directly to the epididymis to bypass the blockage.

How Much Does the Procedure Cost?

The total cost that you may have to incur is usually a combination of several expenses so it may be wise to investigate the total price of the procedure. Depending on factor such as the clinic where you elect to get the procedure done, the surgeon who performs the surgery, the state in which the clinic is located and any complications that may arise during the procedure, the cost of a vasectomy reversal procedure can vary between $10,000 to $15,000. In Canada, you can have the surgery done for as low as $5000. Unfortunately, you cannot get your insurance company to cover the procedure so you will essentially have to make arrangements for the funds on your own. The total cost of the procedure should include the surgeon’s fee, the fees of the anesthesiologist, hospital and medication fee. You can reduce the cost marginally by choosing local anesthesia and going for an outpatient procedure. This can lower the price of the procedure by almost $2500 to $4000.

What is the Success Rate of the Procedure?

The success rate of vasectomy reversal is impressively high; however, it will largely depend on the skills of the surgeon who performs the procedure. Other factors that also impact the success rate include: duration after the original vasectomy procedure. For instance, in a study conducted with 1000 couples who had the procedure done; t was found that men who had the reversal surgery done within three years of vasectomy had 75$ chances of success in achieving pregnancy. People who wait for five years to get the reversal surgery done stand 50% chance of success and the rate goes down progressively with men who go for vasectomy reversal after 10 to 14 years standing only 30% chance of success. The age at which the surgery is perfumed and the age of the partner will also matter in successful conception after the surgery.

Are there any Complications Associated with the Procedure?

Some of the complications that may be experienced include: bleeding from the corners of the scortum, scarring and infection. The surgeon will give you post operative care instructions; however, it is essential to get in touch with the doctor immediately if you notice abnormalities or experience more than the normal amount of pain so that complications can be avoided.