Introduction
A vasectomy is the cutting of both vas deferens in the male testicles, which is usually performed when family planning is complete. However, this procedure can also be reversed. In some cases, a change of partner with a renewed desire to have children is the cause, sometimes the feeling of no longer being “potent” is difficult for the man to bear. Consequently, a urologist is consulted to restore fertility. This procedure is called vasovasostomy or refertilization, i.e. the joining of both severed ends of the vas deferens.
When is repatriation possible?
Potentially, a vasovasostomy is always possible. However, there are factors that can limit the success of the procedure. In principle, the longer the vasectomy has been performed, the more difficult it is to reverse.
After several years, the unused vas deferens scar and are no longer continuous. Due to the backlog of sperm, pressure-related scarring can also form in the tubules of the epididymis itself. In vasovasostomy, patency is checked.
If this is no longer the case, a connection can also be made between the end of the seminal duct near the body and a canal of the epididymis itself (so-called tubulovasostomy). However, this procedure is much more complex and is usually only performed by specialized surgeons. A further criterion for whether fertility can be restored is the size of the piece of vas deferens that was removed during the original vasectomy. If the ends of the vas deferens are too far apart, a vasovasostomy is also more difficult.
Preparation
A vasovasostomy does not require any special preparation. In an initial consultation between patient and urologist, the background of the planned operation should be discussed. Equally important is a comprehensive explanation of the procedure and its risks and chances of success. Since refertilization, unlike vasectomy, is often performed under general anesthesia, an informative discussion with the anesthesiologist is also necessary to clarify any risks.
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