In-Office, No-Needle, No-Scalpel Vasectomy

Although conventional vasectomies have been around since the late 1700s, the no-scalpel vasectomy was invented by a Chinese surgeon, Dr. Li Shunqiang in 1974, and the procedure has been used throughout China and North America on millions of men. It was introduced into the United States in 1988, and it is thought by many to be an improvement on any otherwise excellent procedure, providing permanent birth control for men (and therefore couples) desiring this option.

Our patients have told us that the no-scalpel vasectomy was much faster, simpler and easier than they had ever expected.

Why Have a No-Scalpel Vasectomy?

  • There is no incision.
  • The procedure is faster.
  • There is a faster recovery.
  • The procedure is an in-office procedure (does not require a trip to the hospital).
  • There are no stitches.
  • There are fewer complications.
  • There is less discomfort.
  • It is just as effective as a conventional vasectomy.

What’s the Difference Between a No-Scalpel Vasectomy & Conventional Vasectomy?

The no-scalpel vasectomy is different from a conventional vasectomy in the way the doctor gains access to the tubes as well as the improved method of local anesthesia that helps make the procedure much more comfortable.

In a conventional vasectomy, after the scrotum has been numbed with a local anesthetic, the doctor makes two small cuts in the skin of the scrotum and lifts out each tube. The tubes are cut and blocked so the sperm cannot reach the penis. The doctor then stitches them closed.

In a no-scalpel vasectomy, the doctor numbs the skin and the nerves to the vas deferens (the tubes), but instead of making two incisions, the doctor usually makes only a single tiny opening with a special instrument. The same instrument is then used to gently stretch the opening so the tubes can be easily reached. The tubes are then blocked by cutting, cauterizing (sealing them shut) and then tying off each end. There is very little bleeding with the no-scalpel technique. With this gentle procedure, there are no stitches needed to close the tiny opening and the procedure is done in the office in a private, relaxing environment (not in the hospital or surgical center).

What’s the Difference Between No-Needle Anesthesia & Conventional Anesthesia?

The no-needle anesthesia is different from conventional anesthesia in the way the doctor delivers anesthetic, which helps make the procedure much more comfortable.

With conventional local anesthesia, the scrotum is numbed by delivering the anesthetic with a needle. With no-needle anesthesia, the doctor numbs the skin using a less invasive method. Instead of using a needle, the anesthetic is sprayed onto the skin to make the area numb. This technology allows the procedure to be even gentler, which helps our patients relax and be much more comfortable during their visit. The bottom line is that the no-scalpel and no-needle vasectomy is better than the conventional vasectomy. Patients like the fact that it is a safe and effective procedure where they can heal quickly with fewer complications. Our patients find that they are back to work, sports and their regular activities sooner than they imagined. They especially like that we do the vasectomy in a comfortable office setting as opposed to a hospital or surgical center.

*The information on this page about In-Office, No-Needle, No-Scalpel Vasectomies has been reviewed by Dr. Mostowfi, Dr. Jovanovic, Dr. Dragisic and Dr. Tsoutsias. If you have any questions, please call us or fill out our online contact form.

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