Complications of vasectomy

Much anxiety has arisen about the longterm immunological and cardiovascular effects of vasectomy. Evidence to date for increased atherosclerosis is inconclusive, although immunological side effects such as sperm agglutination and immobilization occur in about 40% of vasectomized men. Although many psychosocial effects have been reported, the only problem the authors have encountered is refusal to return for postoperative sperm counts. Careful preparation and counselling are essential in preventing postoperative psychological effects. Postoperative complications are few and minor. The failure rate varies from 0.25-1.2%; patients should be warned of this. Reversal of the procedure is now possible; 40-60% of men who request reversal eventually become fathers.