A vasectomy reversal is a surgical procedure that restores continuity of the vas deferens with the aim of restoration of fertility to the male. To achieve the best results, the procedure requires an experienced surgeon using an operating microscope

Success Rates

Without the use of microsurgical techniques, vasectomy reversal is successful in only 40 - 50% of cases (success defined as the presence of sperm in the ejaculate). The use of microsurgical techniques allows for more precise approximation of the ends of the vas deferens and results in higher success rates of over 90%. Importantly, the inner diameter of the vas ‘tubing’ is less than the diameter of a human hair!!

Who is a Candidate for Vasectomy Reversal?

Essentially any man who has had a vasectomy is a candidate for vasectomy reversal. Microsurgical techniques now make vasectomy reversal possible at any time after vasectomy. It is rare that a vasectomy reversal cannot be accomplished. In general sooner the vasectomy is reversed, the better the results with the best results in our hands for patients who have undergone vasectomy within the preceding 10 years. However, even though this is the case successful results have been obtained using the microscope in patients who have had their original vasectomy up to 20 years previously. For these reasons, couples that are considering vasectomy reversal should not delay the surgery for too long.

Expectations Before, During And After Surgery

No specific testing is required before surgery. A referral letter including your previous or any co-existing medical conditions and current medication relevant  to your care will be necessary.

Vasectomy reversals take place at the BUPA Hospital Bristol. vasectomy reversal undertaken under general anaesthesia. This is essential as the patient must lie very still under the operating microscope. The procedure can be long – up to 3 hours in some challenging cases and general anaesthesia is necessary from this standpoint also

Patients are usually discharged home the day after surgery. With postoperative analgesia discomfort is minimised but it is important that patients understandthat postoperative discomfort is more severe than for the original vasectomy. Most of the discomfort is usually resolved within 3 to 4 days. Strenuous activity is not recommended as is sexual intercourse for 3 weeks after surgery.

Your surgeon

Mr Persad is 45 and belongs to a only a handful of urological surgeons in the UK who have been trained in the microsurgical technique of reversal of vasectomy. He uses a two-layered anastomosis technique which is accepted among experts as being the best technique and using the microscope he is able to adapt the operation to get best results. For example if there is excessive scarring of the vas from previous surgery or if the anatomical site of the previous vasectomy is too close to the testis he can perform a microsurgical connection of the vas directly on to the epididymis of the testis. He performs 35-40 of these procedures each year and his overall results indicate a 90% surgical success rate for restoring the passage of sperm. It is important to note that due to other patient or partner factors not all these cases will go on to have successful pregnancy but the vast majority (60-70%) do. Semen analyses are requested at 3months after surgery and the medical team at the Bristol Urology Associates will keep closely in touch with you in the intervening period.

Further Assistance

Through our office at the Bristol Urology Associates (tel 0117 980 4118, email info@bristolurology.com) or through the BUPA Hospital Bristol (tel 0117 973 2562)  we would be happy to help with further information and to help make your treatment as free from difficulties as possible.