Are you ready for the ol’ “snip snip”? Is it time to retire the swim team? There are two types of vasectomies that can accomplish just that.
It’s perfectly normal to feel a little trepidation going into a vasectomy. What helps calm the nerves is information. Real knowledge on the subject from those who know. The Urology Associates of South Bend have all the information you need and more.
For starters, let’s discuss the two types of vasectomies:
The Two Types of Vasectomies
As in any field, the medical field is always seeking out ways to improve on procedures. How can we make it less invasive? Less painful? Easier to recover from? Can we reduce any risks even further?
The two different types of vasectomies are an excellent example of improvement. They are most often referred to as conventional and non-scalpel.
Conventional Vasectomy
The conventional vasectomy is the slightly more invasive version. While it is still an out-patient procedure that takes only 20-30 minutes and typically a week or so to recover from, it involves a little more cutting and maneuvering.
Here’s how it works: your doctor will make one to two cuts in the scrotum. Once inside, the vas deferens (the tubes that carry sperm) will be located and cut. A small section may be removed and the ends cauterized, or the ends of the vas deferens may be tied. The doctor will then use a few stitches or skin “glue” to close up the incisions made to the scrotum.
While the conventional vasectomy is still considered very low risk and minimally invasive, the no-scalpel version has it beat.
No-Scalpel Vasectomy
This vasectomy method was invented in China in 1974 and made its way to the United States ten years later. Clearly, it’s not a super new method but it has become more and more popular over the years. When you know how it works, you’ll understand why.
During the no-scalpel vasectomy, a tiny puncture is made in the scrotum. The doctor will then find the vas deferens underneath the skin and direct it to the puncture where it is pulled through the tiny hole. Once outside, the vas deferense is cut and cauterized and allowed to slip right back into the scrotum. The hole is so small that stitches aren’t even necessary.
Not only does this method essentially eliminate scarring, it also results in little to no bleeding or bruising. Less pain has been reported and recovery is quicker. And what’s more, the risk of complication drops from 5%-10% as with conventional down to less than 1%. It’s no surprise that this method, which also tends to take even less time to perform, is a favorite.
The Right Type for You
The talented urologists at Urology Associates of South Bend are well versed in both types of vasectomies. When you schedule a vasectomy with the team at Urology Associates of South Bend, you can rest assured that you’ll receive the very best care possible.
If your little swimmers are ready to retire, Urology Associates of South Bend have you covered. Contact us today!