Vasectomy reversal for post-vasectomy pain syndrome

Transl Androl Urol. 2017 May;6(Suppl 1):S10-S13. doi: 10.21037/tau.2017.04.37.

Abstract

Post-vasectomy pain syndrome (PVPS) is a rare, but devastating outcome following vasectomy. Given the widespread utilization of vasectomy for permanent contraception, with more than 500,000 procedures performed annually in the United States, it can be a significant challenge for both patients and providers. Vasectomy reversal is a surgical option for men who fail conservative or medical management. Despite improvements in technique, vasectomy carries some inherent risks making pre-procedure counseling regarding the risks of PVPS paramount. Chronic post-operative pain, or PVPS, occurs in 1-2% of men undergoing the procedure. This review will examine the utility of vasectomy reversal as a means of addressing PVPS.

Keywords: Vasectomy; post-vasectomy pain syndrome (PVPS); vasectomy reversal.

Publication types

  • Review