Vasectomy reversal boasts a global success rate of 75% to 95% in restoring sperm to semen, though outcomes depend on several key factors.
Consultant urologist and andrologist at Universiti Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC), Dr. Chai Chu Ann, explained that the effectiveness of the procedure is influenced by variables such as the time elapsed since the vasectomy, the surgeon’s expertise, and any underlying fertility complications.
He emphasized that patient and partner factors, including age and overall reproductive health, significantly impact the likelihood of conception. “While global data provides valuable insights, Malaysia currently lacks comprehensive local statistics on vasectomy reversal success rates,” he told Sinar Daily.
Dr. Chai noted that reversals performed within three years of the initial vasectomy yield the highest success rates. However, over time, obstacles such as epididymal blockages, scar tissue formation, or the development of anti-sperm antibodies can lower the chances of success.
For couples considering vasectomy reversal, he advised evaluating the female partner’s fertility, as factors like age and ovarian reserve are crucial to natural conception. Hormonal testing and ovarian reserve assessments can provide essential information in this regard.
If natural conception does not occur despite a successful reversal, assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be an option,” he suggested. Additionally, he highlighted that individuals undergoing vasectomy reversal could opt for surgical sperm retrieval (SSR) during the procedure, allowing sperm to be stored for potential IVF use in the future.
Dr. Chai also underscored Malaysia’s advancements in microsurgical techniques, particularly in major urban centers like Kuala Lumpur. He noted that Universiti Malaya has been at the forefront of developing expertise in men’s health and infertility treatments.
Under Dr. Chai’s leadership, the urology team at UMMC has established specialized services to address complex male reproductive health conditions. These include advanced procedures such as Microdissection Testicular Sperm Extraction (MicroTESE), vasectomy reversal, and microsurgical varicocelectomy—techniques that have significantly strengthened Malaysia’s capabilities in treating male infertility.
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