Vasectomy Reversal for Treatment of the Post-Vasectomy Pain Syndrome

Abstract

PURPOSE: The post-vasectomy pain syndrome is a rare but troublesome complication of vasectomy. We report our experience with 32 patients who underwent vasectomy reversal for relief of the post-vasectomy pain syndrome. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The records of 32 patients undergoing vasovasostomy or epididymovasostomy for the post-vasectomy pain syndrome were evaluated for characteristics of symptoms, previous therapy, interval from vasectomy, success of surgery and duration of relief. RESULTS: Of 32 men who underwent vasectomy reversal for the post-vasectomy pain syndrome between 1980 and 1994, 24 had relief of symptoms after the initial procedure. Of 8 men with recurrent pain 6 underwent a second reversal procedure, and 3 of them subsequently had relief of symptoms. Overall, 27 of 32 men had resolution of pain. CONCLUSIONS: In our experience vasectomy reversal has a high rate of success for relief of the post-vasectomy pain syndrome. It does not preclude other forms of surgical therapy and it should be considered in the treatment of the post-vasectomy pain syndrome.