Vasectomy Information

Overview of Vasectomy

Vasectomy is a minor surgical procedure to cut and close off vas deferens—the tubes that deliver sperm from the testes. Vasectomy is usually performed as contraceptive measure. The surgery usually takes about half an hour to perform and has few complications associated with it. There should be no change in sexual function. A vasectomy is less invasive and more easily reversed than other contraceptive procedures (such as tubal ligation—the procedure used to prevent a woman's eggs from reaching the uterus). Vasectomy is becoming increasing popular as a means of permanent birth control.

The Male Reproductive System

To understand how a vasectomy works, it helps to have an understanding of the functions of the male reproductive system. The testicles, or testes, are organs that produce sperm and testosterone. They are located in the scrotum, a sac at the base of the penis. Each testicle is connected to a small, coiled tube called the epididymis, where sperm are stored. Sperm can mature in the epididymis for up to 6 weeks. The epididymes are connected to the prostate gland by a pair of tubes called the vas deferens. The vas deferens are part of a larger bundle of tissue, blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatic channels called the spermatic cord. During ejaculation, seminal fluid produced by the prostate gland mixes with sperm from the testes to form semen, which is ejaculated from the penis.

Vasectomy Preparation

Preparations that may be required prior to undergoing vasectomy include the following:

• Wash the scrotum to help prevent infection. (Some urologists also instruct patients to shave the front of the scrotum.)
• Bring a pair of tight-fitting underwear or athletic supporter to support the scrotum and minimize swelling.
• Arrange for a ride home to minimize exertion and movement that can exacerbate swelling.
• Avoid anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen and aspirin. (These medications "thin" the blood and can cause excessive bleeding.)

The Procedure

A vasectomy can be done as an in-office, out-patient procedure that takes about 30 minutes. The patient usually lies on his back, clothed from the waist up. The urologist numbs the scrotum with one or more injections of local anesthetic. The vas deferens are then gathered under the skin of the scrotum, where a small incision (usually 1 centimeter or less) is made. The urologist pulls the vas deferens through the incision, cutting in two places to remove a segment of the tube. Each end of the vas deferens is then tied off or clipped and placed back in the scrotum. The incision is sutured, and the procedure is repeated on the other side of the scrotum. Some urologists cauterize the ends of the vas deferens, but others find that cauterization complicates reversal and is unnecessary. Most men return home immediately after the procedure.

No-scalpel Vasectomy

In the no-scalpel vasectomy, a surgical clamp is used to hold the vas deferens while a puncture incision (instead of a cut) is made with special forceps. The forceps are opened to stretch the skin, making a small hole through which the vas deferens is lifted out, cut, sutured or cauterized, and put back in place. The puncture incision does not require suturing. Some urologists recommend the no-scalpel method because they find it is quicker and minimizes postoperative discomfort and the risk for bleeding and infection. Recently, as encouraging studies are reported, more vasectomies are being performed using this approach.

This vasectomy article is based on an original article that is copyrighted by Healthcommunities.com, and originally published at www.urologychannel.com/vasectomy.