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Patient Information for Vasectomy
Vasectomy is an operation performed to render a man sterile, unable to father children.
Many men choose to have a vasectomy because it is more reliable than other birth control
methods or their families are complete. The operation should be considered permanent.
The vas deferens (tubes carrying sperm) can be surgically reattached (microsurgical
vasectomy reversal), but at a greater complication and expense, and not always with great
success.
Vasectomy is often the preferred method of permanent contraception as it is simpler than
female sterilization, can be performed on an outpatient and often office-based basis, and is
much less expensive.
Overview
 This diagram
illustrates the normal anatomy of the male reproductive system.
The testicles make sperm and the male sex hormone, testosterone, which goes directly into
the blood stream. The epididymis is a series of coiled tubes that hold sperm until they
mature. The vas deferens carry the sperm from the epididymis to the penis to exit through
the urethra. The prostate and seminal vesicles secrete the fluids called semen (ejaculate) that nourish and
carry the sperm.
How a Vasectomy Works
The procedure involves cutting and sealing the vas deferens (tubes carrying the sperm).
This prevents the sperm from being able to travel outside of the penis. Sperm are still made
by the testicle, but since they cannot get out, they are absorbed in the body.
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This procedure does not affect the volume of a man's semen (ejaculate) or the production
of the male sex hormone, testosterone. The operation cannot be considered complete
until the semen (ejaculate) has been examined by the doctor to confirm that all sperm above
the point of the operation have been emptied out.
What to expect
The procedure is performed at an outpatient surgery center or the doctor's office if the
patient is an appropriate candidate. The surgeon feels for the vas deferens under the skin of
the scrotum and holds it in place. The area is numbed with a local anesthetic and one or
two small incisions are made in the scrotum. The vas deferens are then lifted through the
incision and cut. The ends are then sealed. The incision may be closed with a stitch. The
entire procedure typically lasts less than 30 minutes. |
Side effects
Serious side effects are rare. Swelling and bruising of the scrotum occasionally occur.
Complications of inflammation bleeding or infection are possible but uncommon. Other
potential complications include the formation of a sperm granuloma, or a hard lump at the
site of the cut vas deferens. This is a result of a small amount of sperm leaking from the vas. This
is not dangerous and usually resolves with time. Additionally, congestion may occur leading to a sense of
pressure caused by sperm in the testicles, epididymis or vas deferens. This usually resolves over time as well.
Preparation
The physicians at Urology Specialists, P.C. will determine the suitability of vasectomy for
you after completing a thorough consultation. They will go over your health history as it
relates to vasectomy, and you will receive a brief physical examination. You and your wife
or partner will then be asked to complete a request for sterilization form before undergoing
the procedure.
For more information please contact our office or click on the link for Vasectomy Information and Consent.
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Urology Specialists, P.C. |
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Medical Plaza East: 2529 Glenn Hendren Dr., Suite 202, Liberty, MO 64068 |
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Professional Building North: 2700 Clay Edwards Dr., Suite 300, North Kansas City, MO 64116 |
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