The purpose of a vasectomy is to prevent the delivery of sperm during intercourse. The vas deferens is a narrow duct that carries sperm from the testicle to the point of delivery. The surgeon locates the vas in the scrotum and then blocks sperm delivery by tying the vas and cauterizing it. This blockage prevents sperm from leaving the body. Fingers are used to gently locate the vas under the skin in the upper portion of the scrotum. In the open-ended no scalpel vasectomy, the end attached to the testicle is left open, thus decreasing the chances for backup pressure and persistent pain. Local anesthetic is injected to numb the skin and the vas area, causing a sensation that most patients describe as similar to a small mosquito bite. Numbing is achieved within 10 seconds. Very little, if any, discomfort is felt while making a tiny puncture in the scrotum and inserting a hemostat. Using special equipment, the vas is then drawn out through the puncture, divided and tied off on one side only. No stitches are needed to close the small wound. |
