Patient Information

Vasectomy is a simple, safe surgical procedure for permanent male

fertility control. The tube (called a "vas") which leads from the

testicle is cut and sealed in order to stop sperm from leaving. The

procedure usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

Since the procedure simply interrupts the delivery of sperm it does

not change hormonal function - leaving sexual drive and potency

unaffected.

The "No-Scalpel" Technique

The "No-Scalpel" technique is a technique to do the vasectomy

through one single puncture. This puncture is made into the

scrotum and requires no suturing or stitches.

It represents a significant improvement over conventional vasectomy

techniques in that it is less traumatic and shortens recovery time.

This procedure is done with the aid of a local anesthetic called

"Xylonest". The actual interruption of the vas which is done with

the "No-Scalpel" technique is identical to the interruption made

with conventional techniques.

The "No-Scalpel" technique is simply a more elegant and less

traumatic way for the surgeon to control the vas and proceed

with its interruption.

As with any surgical procedure, the primary risks of vasectomy are

infection and bleeding. These risks are generally low for this

procedure. It is also important that each patient understand that

vasectomy is approached as an irreversible procedure. While

vasectomy can be reversed surgically at times, its successful

reversal cannot be guaranteed. Also important is the fact that the

vas deferens can grow back together. This is called recanalization

and occurs only rarely - less than 1/2 to 1 percent of the time.

A vasectomy leaves the patient unchanged except for the fact that

the sperm cord (vas) is blocked. The testes still produce sperm, but

they die and are absorbed by the body. The level of male hormone

remains the same and all sexual characteristics remain the same.

Ability to have an erection is also entirely unchanged.

Prior to coming to your doctor for vasectomy you should take a

shower. Don´t shave your scrotum.

You will be asked to sign a permission form

before your vasectomy.

After you undress, the scrotum will be washed and a drape will

be put on you. The anesthetic will be injected into the scrotum at

the site of the vasectomy. This will not be an injection into the

testicle. The anesthetic will prevent you from feeling pain as the

doctor uses a special instrument to puncture the scrotum and

grasp the vas deferens.The vas is then cut and sealed. Through

the same puncture the other side is similarly done.

Following your procedure it is important that you remain off your

feet as  much as possible for 24 hours. This is important in

order to minimize the chance of post-surgical complications. The 

anesthetic will wear off in approximately 1 to 2 hours after surgery.

You should have someone else drive you home. You may shower at

your leisure. Sexual activity may be resumed in approximately 3 to 

4 days. (At this time you are not yet sterile and safe from pregnancy.)

Your doctor will ask you to bring a semen specimen in approximately

10  to 12 weeks after your vasectomy.

This must be checked in order to be assured that the vasectomy

worked and that you are sterile.