Abstract

A reversal of a vasectomy is required in about 3% of men who undergo vasectomy (1). We set out to examine the relationships between the age at which vasectomy was performed and the interval before subsequent reversal within the context of the armed forces. Thirty seven patients were identified from hospital records, as having undergone a reversal of vasectomy in the preceding two years, and thirty one sets of notes were available for inspection. Ages at vasectomy and at reversal were recorded and, where stated in the notes, if there had been a change in partner prior to the reversal request. Twelve (39%) men were under the age of thirty years at the time of their vasectomy, with a mean time to reversal of 4.4 years. Nineteen (61%) were over the age of thirty years at time of the vasectomy and their mean time to reversal was 7.2 years. Where recorded, the reason for requesting a reversal was a change in partner in 90% of men.

Men who had their vasectomies before reaching the age of thirty were more likely to undergo reversal in a significantly shorter period of time when compared to those over thirty years. The disseminated criteria for vasectomy should be adhered to and appropriate preoperative counselling by surgeons may be useful.