A vasectomy reversal procedure or vasovasostomy is the reattachment of the severed vas deferens to restore flow of seminal fluid during ejaculation. At times a blockage or blowout can occur in one end of the severed vas deferens and should be bypassed during the vasectomy reversal procedure. The procedure is not guaranteed to restore fertility as the chances for that increase with how recent the original vasectomy was performed and the quality of the original surgery has to be taken into account.
You need to prepare for a vasectomy reversal procedure just like you do for most other outpatient surgeries. You will need to not eat or drink for up to eight hours before surgery. You should not take any anti inflammatory drugs (Advil, Ibuprofen or Nuprin) for ten days prior to surgery. These drugs decrease clotting and can cause problems with bleeding after the surgery. Arrange in advance for someone to drive you home after the surgery as you will be coming out of the general anesthesia and it affects everyone differently.
The doctor will open the scrotum on both sides during the vasectomy reversal procedure and reattach the cut end of the vas deferens to each side to return the tubes to their original state. As long as there is fluid in the vas tube that contains sperm (viewed in the operating room under a microscope) then the procedure is warranted. Although you are already there on the operating table. Do they just stop if there is no sperm? Of course not, they continue as planned and hope that the sperm will multiply over time and swim their happy ways again. Once out of surgery you will want to have snug underwear or an athletic supporter so as to not stretch the stitches and cause damage.