Vasectomy: what it is and how it takes place
Male vasectomy is a very minor surgical procedure of removal, after ligation, of the channels that allow the passage of sperm (vas deferens).
It is an operation used as a contraceptive method, which has the character of permanence.
In addition to the aforementioned use, vasectomy can also be a phase of orchiectomy, which is a measure that prevents infection after another surgery or during prostate removal surgery.
Vasectomy is one of the most effective methods of contraception, although it is recommended that you undergo tests to be able to say that you are indeed infertile.
The operation is generally irreversible, but there are microsurgical procedures that can in some cases remedy the resection and allow the man to be able to have children again.
Why perform vasectomy surgery?
Vasectomy represents the only viable and safe route to male contraception. Vasectomy is a small, safe and minimally traumatic procedure.
After the operation, the patient will feel safer in relationships and will avoid his partner having to undergo hormone treatment (which in some cases, for health reasons, cannot be prescribed).
How is the surgery performed?
Through a small incision of a few centimeters on the scrotum, the vas deferens are identified, ligated, and dissected. Each stump is wrapped by its tunic so that the two stumps remain in separate spaces, so as to reduce the risk of recanalization. At the end, the skin is closed again with a few resorbable stitches.
An alternative is the scalpell technique in which the skin of the scrotum is opened with a spiked forceps and the vas deferens is extracted, which will be closed with one of the above techniques.
What are the risks and side effects?
The most frequent fear that patients manifest is that vasectomy may alter their appearance and sexual sphere but let us clarify, that in the male who undergoes vasectomy there are no alterations in appearance and the only evidence of the examination is evidenced exclusively by a microscopic examination of the sperm (spermiogram).
The operation does not affect libido at all; on the contrary, it is often stimulated. Likewise, erection remains unchanged.
Is vasectomy surgery reversible?
Vasectomy surgery is to be considered irreversible, and the couple should be carefully informed about the procedure, which should be considered only if shared and necessary.
In case of real fear of future reconsideration, cryopreservation (freezing at very low temperature) of the spermatozoa can be considered to allow future insemination.
What should be done after the surgery?
At the end of the surgery the patient can safely return home, with the advice to rest for a few hours. Immediately afterwards, one can resume normal activities and sexual activity after about a week. It is good not to wet the dressing for about 5 days, and it will be advised to wear a tight-fitting brief for a few days to facilitate the healing process.
An outpatient Urology clinic is available at Poliambulatori San Gaetano. Urology surgeries are performed privately within our facility.
The dedicated English-language answering service is available by calling or texting +393296253353 for information or reservation.