After Vasectomy Reversal Failure
Vasectomy reversal is one of the most technically challenging surgeries in all of medicine. The skill and experience of the microsurgeon is critical. If no sperm are present in the semen by six months after vasovasostomy or by 12 to 18 months after vasoepididymostomy, then the reversal surgery is considered a failure. Often, the cause of reversal failure is that a vasovasostomy was performed when a vasoepididymostomy was indicated. Or, there was inaccurate approximation of the vas due to poor surgical technique. Or, blockage occurred from scarring as a result of disruption of the vas blood supply. Scientific studies support re-operation in cases of failed vasectomy reversals.
Reoperation of Failed Vasectomy Reversals
In the hands of a skilled and experienced microsurgeon such as Dr. Larish , the exact cause of a vasectomy reversal failure can be identified and addressed. In the event of epididymal blockage, a vasoepididymostomy can be performed. In cases of poor approximation of the severed ends of the vas deferens or scarring of the vas deferens, a repeat vasovasostomy may do just the trick. Dr. Larish has “redone” many failed vasectomy reversals and corrected “redo” failures by other physicians. Given his advanced expertise, an additional vasectomy reversal procedure may be more cost-effective than in vitro fertilization.
Sperm Retrieval and In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
IVF involves incubation of human eggs and sperm in a culture dish. For fertilization to occur, the egg must have optimal maturity and the sperm must function normally. Once a fertilized egg develops into an embryo, it is transferred back into the female. In a man with a vasectomy, sperm must be retrieved from the testicle or epididymis. It involves insertion of a needle under local anesthesia. The cost of one cycle of IVF can range from $8,000 to $15,000.
Because of the expense, lower pregnancy rates, and potential side effects from hormonal therapy for the female partner, reversal surgery, and in most cases, repeat reversal surgery are options of first choice for vasectomized men. IVF is an option to consider if vasectomy reversal is unsuccessful, rather than as an alternative to surgery. Dr. Larish works together with fertility clinics in New York to perform sperm retrieval techniques in combination with IVF treatment.
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If you are interested in learning more about vasectomy reversal microsurgery, call Dr. Larish, the most experienced micro-surgeon for vasectomy reversal in NYC.
