Vasectomy

Alternative names:

sterilization surgery - male

Definition:

Surgery to "tie the tubes" (vas deferens) of a man to cause permanent sterility by preventing transport of sperm out of the testes. This surgery does not affect the man's ability to achieve orgasm or ejaculate (potency). There will still be a fluid ejaculate, but there will be no sperm in this fluid.

Description:

Vasectomy is usually done in the surgeon's office while the patient is awake but pain-free (using local anesthesia). A small incision is made in the upper part of the scrotum, under the penis. The tubes (vas deferens) are tied off and cut apart. The skin incision is stitched closed. The patient is able to return home immediately.

Indications:

Vasectomy may be recommended for adult men who are certain that they wish to prevent future pregnancies (permanent sterilization). Vasectomy is not recommended as a temporary or reversible procedure.