How does the time since the original vasectomy impact outcomes following a vasectomy reversal?
Vasectomy reversals performed earlier have better results. The longer the vas is obstructed as a consequence of the vasectomy, the more back pressure there is on the epididymus, and the more likely this will lead to a secondary epididymal obstruction. The presence of epididymal obstruction will mandate a re-connection of the vas to the epididymis (vasoepididymostomy) which has a lower overall success rate (60% return of sperm to the ejaculate if performed on both sides). Research tells us that after about 10 years, there is about a 40% chance that a vasoepididymostomy will need to be performed on at least one side. There is a high chance that the vasovasostomy can be performed if the vasectomy reversal is performed within 10 years of the vasectomy.
