Contraception and voluntary sterilization: male sterilization and the possibility of reversal
Tacciuoli, M.; Alei, G.
Patologia e Clinica Ostetrica e Ginecologica 8(6): 477-483
1981
ISSN/ISBN: 0304-0313 PMID: 12263407 Document Number: 398259
Vasectomy is a simple and safe procedure, regularly done on an outpatient basis. Since spontaneous recanalization of the vasa deferentia is always possible, researchers have experimented with other means of surgical obstruction of the vasa; such experiments, which involved silastic plugs, intravasal threads, tantalium clips, and hard or soft valves, have not been very successful. Together with an increased demand for vasectomy goes an increased demand for vasectomy reversal. Vas reanastomosis is an extremely difficult and lengthy surgical procedure; failure is usually due to anatomical and/or functional causes related and consequent to the previous vasectomy. If reversibility is surgically successful in 60% of cases, the functional success of the procedure is only about 40%. Hence the importance of sound judgment, maturity and objective counseling prior to sterilization.