Open-ended, No Scalpel and traditional vasectomies
Open-ended Vasectomy
A true open-ended vasectomy should take at least 25 minutes to perform.
This procedure involves two tiny incisions to access the vas tubes. The tubes are then cut, and the testicular end is left opened and unsealed, with both ends of the tubes separated by layers of tissue within the scrotal sac by fine suturing. Sperm continues to be produced after the vasectomy so this fluid travels from the testicle up the vas where it then flows out of the vas and into the tissues. The body reabsorbs this naturally. The testicular vas deferens and the vas deferens that leads to the prostate reconstructed in separate compartment to minimise the risk of failure.
As a result of this technique:
- Sperm does not suddenly build up in the testicle, so the development of an inflammatory cascade, blow out and scarring of the fine epididymal tubules is avoided.
- Sperm flow is directed and absorbed under the skin rather than left to clog up the tubules.
- An open-ended vasectomised patient is unlikely to be aware that they have had a vasectomy unlike the closed ended vasectomy patients that often experience some form of aching and tenderness.
- The nature of this technique prevents the build-up of sperm and the associated congestion (post vasectomy pain syndrome), a lower rate of postoperative pain, and a better potential for vasectomy reversal in the future.
- It is important to use contraception for the first few months after surgery. This is done to allow the remaining sperm to be flushed out beyond the scrotal ties. It is important to note that sperm will continue to be produced in the testicles after surgery.
No Scalpel Vasectomy
A “no scalpel” technique merely describes how the vas tubes are accessed. Once the skin is opened, a traditional technique is generally used to perform the vasectomy.
A “no scalpel” technique involves tearing the scrotum with sharp pointed forceps to access the vas tubes. Both ends of the tubes are then cut, tied or cauterised to prevent the movement of sperm. Sperm production continues once the vas deferens sealed, and the sperm build up in these tubes can clog the system over a period of time.
The Metrocentre way of performing a vasectomy involves using fine instruments with two small access sites positioned precisely to access each testicle individually. A longer, reconstructive procedure is performed where the focus is on preserving the plumbing of the vas deferens to avoid the complication of haemorrhage and post vasectomy congestion pain; as well as to make it the most reversible if circumstances should ever change.
Traditional Vasectomy
A traditional vasectomy takes around 10 minutes to perform.
This technique uses either a scalpel or sharp forceps to access the vas tubes. It is usual to have either one central or two large incisions, the vas tube is cut and sealed (either burnt, tied or stapled) and sections of the vas deferens may be removed.
If large sections are removed and sutures or staples damage the blood supply in the scrotum, then a vasectomy reversal may be more difficult after this technique is used. By tying the ends attached to the testicles, blow outs and scarring of the fine storage tubules called the epididymis is more likely to cause chronic scrotal pain of varying severity (post vasectomy pain syndrome) and a more complex vasectomy reversal.
In one case we repaired, 10 metal staples (counted on ultrasound) were used in the vasectomy. This can cause significant collateral damage to important blood vessels, nerves and lymphatics that can increase the long-term risk of complications and lessen the chance of successful vasectomy reversal if there was a change of circumstance.
How does a vasectomy work - the Metrocentre Way?
Download our vasectomy guide to learn more about what to expect before, during and after your procedure.
How to get started with a vasectomy
At Metrocentre we strive to educate our patients about the various vasectomy procedures available in Australia, allowing you to make an educated decision on the treatment path you would like to pursue.
We have a number of pathways which include education for yourself and your partner; as well a more express pathways if you are already comfortable with your decision to proceed with us.
RECOMMENDED OPTION
GROUP ZOOM CALL
What’s covered in the call?
- Important things to consider before having a vasectomy.
- What to expect before, during and after your procedure.
- An opportunity for a Q+A.
Same day Consult and procedure
This is a good option for people who are already confident in their decision to have a vasectomy procedure with us and want to proceed.
Benefits of a Vasectomy the Metrocentre Way:
- Reduction in Post Vasectomy Pain.
- Preserves lymphatics, nerves, veins and arteries.
- Retain normal function of the male reproductive organs.
Ready for a chat?
Call our friendly team on 1800 367 636 to book a consultation or book online.
Frequently Asked Questions
At Metrocentre we have created a gallery of some of the most commonly asked questions in relation to Vasectomies and the procedures we offer.
Our doctors are more than happy to answer any of your questions or concerns during your consultation – Book Now.
Our Team
Dr Chris Lekich leads our doctor team who provide the most effective and most reversible vasectomies with a highly specialised and very precise microsurgery technique.
It is important to learn about the different doctors and techniques available so you can make an informed choice about the type of vasectomy you wish to have, and the doctor you want to perform it.
