Patient Information

Over 500,000 vasectomy procedures are done each year in the United States. 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 "Xylocaine" (similar to "Novocain"). 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. Your doctor may request that you 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 to 48 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 4 to 6 weeks after your vasectomy. This must be checked in order to be assured that the vasectomy worked and that you are sterile.

The "No-Scalpel" technique is a technique that was first done in China in 1974. Over recent years it has become more and more popular in the United States. The vasectomy done is essentially the same as vasectomies done for many many years. Its primary difference is that the vas deferens is controlled and grasped by the surgeon in a less traumatic manner. This results in less pain and fewer postoperative complications. As time continues more and more physicians will be using the technique.