Vasectomy and Vasovasostomy - Male Contraception

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Other Vasectomy Procedures

Vasclip. The Vasclip is a recent alternative to conventional vasectomy. The procedure does not involve cutting the vas deferens. Instead, a very small rice-sized plastic clip is locked around the vas deferens to stop the flow of sperm. Some studies have reported fewer post-surgical complications than with standard vasectomy, including infection and swelling. However, studies have also reported that the Vasclip is less effective than no-scalpel vasectomy for reducing sperm count. To date, there is insufficient evidence that the Vasclip is better than standard vasectomy. Some insurance companies consider this procedure to be investigational and will not pay for it.

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Recovery

Vasectomy is a low-risk procedure, and complications, which occur in about 10% of patients, are usually easy to control. There are generally fewer complications with no-scalpel vasectomy. Pain or soreness typically lingers for a few days after the procedure, but this is normal and usually does not require a return visit to the doctor. No deaths resulting from vasectomy have ever been reported in the United States.

Nearly all men recover completely in a few days. The following are some guidelines after the operation to help recovery:

• The local anesthetic wears off about 1 - 2 hours after the procedure, and most patients then experience a dull ache in the testicles and groin. The doctor may prescribe a painkiller for the first few days, continuing with mild over-the-counter pain relievers if discomfort persists. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) with or without codeine is the primary choice for postoperative pain. Aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause bleeding and should be avoided.
• The patient should stay in bed on his back for at least one day and apply ice packs for 8 hours. The doctor may suggest that the patient wear an athletic supporter.
• Some oozing of blood onto the gauze pads is normal during the first 2 days after the operation.
• The patient should not perform any heavy physical labor for at least 2 days. Sports and heavy lifting may be resumed 2 - 3 weeks after surgery.
• Men can resume having sex about a week after surgery, but should use contraception until a semen analysis confirms that no sperm remain. During ejaculation, the patient may experience some discomfort in the groin and testicles at first due to the contraction of the vas deferens. This sensation diminishes as the tissues heal.