In some cases, the presence or absence of sperm granulomas may determine the success rate for vasectomy reversal. It is believed that sperm granulomas may be protective because they can prevent the obstruction of the testicles and epididymis. Sperm granulomas are believed to reduce the pressure thats generated after vasectomy and prevent blockages of sperm output into the vas fluid during ejaculation. Therefore, there are no changes in the amount of sperm that are produced into the vas fluid. Sperm granulomas in animals
Additionally, sperm granulomas can exist in non-human species such as rats, dogs, horses, fish, etc. Non-human species exhibit the same causes for sperm granulomas, including infection, injury, and trauma to the epididymal region. For example, vasectomized rats were seen to also have high prevalence of sperm granulomas post-operation while general populations of rats experienced much lower prevalence of sperm granulomas. In the case of sperm granulomas within dogs, their presence is common amongst poorly performed vasectomies. This is consistent with the idea that these lesions form at the site where there is trauma or a chance for the sperm to leak outside of the vasa deferentia or epididymis. In multiple species, sperm granulomas have also been linked to the success rate of certain procedures such as vasectomy reversals, or vasovasostomy. There is also an association between sperm granuloma and antibodies produced against sperm antigens.
Additionally, in order to check sterility post-vasectomy, a semen analysis is performed after 3 months and 20 ejaculations to establish azoospermia (no sperm count in the ejaculate).Vasectomy can also be reversed, which is a more technically challenging procedure than a vasectomy that is performed by less urologists and is a heavier financial burden as it is usually not covered by insurances. Approximately 3-6% of people opt for a reversal due to the death of a child, change in partner, increase in financial abilities, or to find relief from postvasectomy pain syndrome. With advances in medical operations since the 1970s, there has since been increased interest in vasectomy reversals and greater chances of success for patency and pregnancy rates.Vasectomy reversal has a varying success rate. A recent study showed that the most important indicator of pregnancy after vasectomy reversal was the age of the female partner. The two most favorable predictors of success were having a female partner less than 40 years of age and having the reversal performed less than 15 years after vasectomy. Aside from the variation in success, vasectomy reversal also has major economic implications. The cost of a vasectomy reversal can range from $16,000-$30,000 and it is usually an out-of-pocket expense due to lack of insurance coverage. == References ==