A vasectomy reversal is a microsurgical procedure for men who have undergone a vasectomy, and who now wish to father children. Vasectomy reversals are actually one of the most common elective surgeries for men; they have a high rate of success rate when performed by a skilled urologist, experienced in microsurgical techniques. (Even after years or even decades have passed since the original vasectomy.) There are two main forms of vasectomy reversal. The most common is the vas-to vas reconstruction. The second is a testicular bypass. The exact procedure will depend on several factors. In some cases, it is very straightforward, in others, an additional step, known as a testicular bypass surgery, may be required in order to restore a man’s full fertility.
Vas to Testicular Bypass Surgery Versus a Simple Reversal
A vasectomy is a microsurgical procedure that reconnects the vas deferens. In some cases, however, a patient may require a vas to testicular by-pass, in addition to the reconnection. (All vasectomy reversals reconnect the severed tubes (known as vas deferens) that carry sperm from the testes to the urethra.)
During a vasectomy, the tubes are cut, tied, and or cauterized to prevent active sperm from being ejaculated during intercourse. Advanced microsurgical techniques can usually reconnect and repair the break. Sometimes there is more going on that a simple break though. In such instances, an additional procedure (the vas to testicular bypass), is also required.
During the vasectomy reversal procedure, the surgeon takes a sample of seminal fluid to determine if there are active sperm present. If the sperm are not active, or if the fluid appears to be creamy or thick, it may indicate that a blockage has developed somewhere along the track of the vas deferens and the epididymis. (The epididymis is a tightly coiled tube located at the back of each testicle where sperm are produced in a process known as spermatogenesis.)
In the case of a blockage, the surgeon must locate it, and then perform a bypass above that point to allow the sperm to flow properly again. If the blockage cannot be bypassed, the surgeon can still reconnect the vas deferens, however the chances of successfully fathering a child will be greatly reduced. This is one of the reasons that you an experienced and highly trained surgeon, familiar with various techniques matters. Not all surgeons have the necessary qualifications to locate and bypass a blockage.
Dr. Avila, is a board certified and fellowship trained urologist who specializes in male infertility. He is well versed in all aspects of male infertility treatment and an expert in the sophisticated two-layer microsurgical technique for the vas-to-vas reconstruction and bypass. His personal success rates for all forms of vasectomy reversals are much higher than the national average, even in cases in which he has to perform the vas to testicular bypass in order to overcome and occlusion (blockage).
If you, or a loved one is interested in learning more about male infertility or a vasectomy reversal, please call Dr. Desiderio Avila Jr. today to discuss your options. You can contact Dr. Avila at Ironwood Urology in Phoenix to schedule a consultation. Call (480) 961-2323 or request an appointment online.
