Vasectomy reversal outcomes among patients with vasal obstructive intervals greater than 10 years

To analyze the vasectomy reversal (VR) outcomes specifically among patients with vasal obstructive intervals (VOIs) of >10 years. The VOI has been shown to be a significant predictor of outcome after VR. Although no strict cutoff exists, couples have frequently been discouraged from considering a VR strictly according to the interval from vasectomy.

From 2006 to 2011, all consecutive VRs performed by 2 fellowship-trained microsurgeons were analyzed. The patients were stratified into 4 categories according to the duration of the VOI: <10, 10-15, >15-20, and >20 years. The postoperative semen parameters, patency rates, and pregnancy outcomes were compared among the 4 groups.

Of 535 consecutive VRs, 177 patients (33%) had a VOI of >10 years. The couple characteristics, type of VR required, postoperative semen quality, and patency and pregnancy rates among the 4 groups were analyzed. The men with longer VOIs were older (P <.001) and had older female partners (P = .006). Although the VOI influenced the type of reversal performed, favorable semen concentrations (average >20 million/mL in all groups) and patency (average >90%) and pregnancy rates (range 24%-39%) were achieved in men with a VOI >10 years.

Although the interval since vasectomy has a significant effect on the type of VR required, provided a surgeon is proficient in both microsurgical vasovasostomy and vasoepididymostomy, favorable semen parameters and patency and pregnancy rates can be achieved in men with a VOI >10 years. Couples should not be discouraged from considering VR simply according to the VOI.