Vasectomy Reversal Options That Can Restore Your Fertility

A vasectomy reversal reconnects a surgically severed vas deferens, the tube that propels sperm into the ejaculate. If you are reconsidering starting or growing your family, Dr Larry Lipshultz offers vasectomy reversal options at his Houston, TX, practice. As an innovator in male fertility microsurgical procedures, he has helped thousands of men achieve their goals. To learn more, schedule a consultation with Dr. Lipshultz today.

Which Vasectomy Reversal Procedure is Right for You?

Vasectomy reversal is a minor surgical procedure can be carried out using one of two techniques. A vasovasostomy, the more common procedure, is performed when sufficient sperm is present at the side of the vans deferens attached to the epididymis, the organ on the back of the testicle where sperm is stored and matures. During a vasovasostomy, Dr. Lipshultz will reconnect the van deferens to allow sperm to enter the urethra.

In some instances, an obstruction occurs on the epididymal side of the vas deferens, indicated by a lack of sperm. At this point, an epididymovasostomy procedure may be recommended. During this procedure, your surgeon will carefully connect the urethral side of the vas deferens directly to the epididymis. Some patients may need this technique performed on both testes in a procedure called a bilateral epididymovasostomy.

Vasectomy Reversal Alternatives

Certain medical conditions can make patients better suited for alternatives to a vasectomy reversal. An obstruction elsewhere in the reproductive tract, congenital absence of the vas deferens, or impaired sperm production may mean that another surgical approach should be explored. In these cases, men can turn to a technique that retrieves sperm directly, and then injects it into an egg cell aspirated during a cycle of in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Sperm can be retrieved one of two ways: either from the epididymis, or the testis. When retrieved from the epididymis, a large amount of sperm can be collected and frozen for future IVF cycles. For this reason, the epididymal aspiration is the preferred approach. On the other hand, testicular extraction allows for sperm retrieval from patients with severely impaired sperm production.

Choosing the Right Male Fertility Specialist

There are a few primary factors that can significantly impact your vasectomy reversal:

• The skill and experience of the surgeon performing your procedure
• The type of surgery performed
• The number of years that have passed since your vasectomy

One of the most important things you can do to improve your likelihood of success is to choose a surgeon with vast experience and skill. Dr. Lipshultz is respected worldwide for his decades-long work in the field of male fertility. He has pioneered important microsurgical techniques, and has helped thousands of patients from around the globe to achieve their goals.

Contact Us to Schedule Your Consultation

The decision to start or grow a family can be a landmark in your life, and it deserves the attention of a renowned expert. If you are ready to learn more about your vasectomy reversal options, contact our office today and schedule your appointment with Dr. Lipshultz.