Why Vasectomy?
Vasectomy is a simple 15 minute office procedure that interrupts the tubes (vas deferens) that transport sperm from the testicles to the urethra. Vasectomy is not only the most effective form of birth control, but also the least expensive over the long-term. Further, vasectomy is significantly safer, faster, and less expensive for a man than is tubal ligation for a woman. For these reasons, vasectomy is the preferred form of permanent contraception in developed countries, performed about 500,000 times annually in the United States alone.
In The Beginning
Originally, vasectomies were performed by using a scalpel to make 2 incisions, one on each side of the scrotum, over each tube. Each tube was then grasped through the incision and brought out to be cut and tied. Because a relatively long incision had to be made, men often had more pain during and after the procedure. With a larger incision, there is also higher risk of bleeding and infection.
No-Scalpel Vasectomy, A Better Procedure
No-Scalpel Vasectomy (NSV) eliminates the need to use a scalpel to make an incision. Instead, a single tiny skin puncture in the mid-line of the scrotum is used to reach the vas deferens from each side. This puncture is so small that there is no need to suture the skin at the end of the procedure. The small skin opening heals very quickly, often with no visible scar.
Multiple other benefits of NSV have been demonstrated:
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reduced procedure time
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reduced skin trauma means virtually no scar
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reduced pain both during and after the procedure
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reduced pain medication requirement
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reduced risk of bleeding
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reduced risk of infection
No-Needle Anesthetic
Dr. Golden utilizes the latest improvements in the vasectomy procedure, including needle-free anesthesia. Instead of using a needle, Dr. Golden uses a pressurized spray device. The Mada-Jet (See FAQ for more details) delivers improved anesthesia with less initial discomfort. The first spray of anesthetic is often described as feeling like a small mosquito bite. The additional benefit for many men is less anxiety, especially for those with a fear of needles. Further, the risk of injury to a blood vessel is reduced, so the risk of bleeding is lower. These advances have eliminated nearly all of the discomfort and much of the risk associated with the vasectomy procedure. Once you are certain your family is complete, vasectomy is generally the best method of permanent contraception.
