Vasectomy (male sterilisation)

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A vasectomy (male sterilisation) is a surgical procedure to cut or seal the tubes that carry a man’s sperm to permanently prevent pregnancy.

It is carried out under local anaesthetic, the patient will be awake but will not feel any pain, and takes about 15 minutes.

What is No Scalpel Vasectomy (NSV)?

The Bromley GP Alliance uses the no Scalpel Technique. This is a specialised advanced keyhole surgical technique. In terms of outcome NSV is as safe and effective as a conventional vasectomy. However the amount of side effects following this procedure is significantly less as compared to conventional vasectomy and this has led to its increased popularity throughout the world and is, in fact, now considered to be the gold standard.

Specially designed fine instruments are used to bring the tubes out through a single midline keyhole in the scrotal skin before they are divided separately and heat sealed. The advantages of this procedure compared with the conventional scalpel method are:

• No stitches at any stage of the procedure including the skin.
• It is a keyhole procedure which is less invasive and involves less tissue handling, which in turn results in reduced complications, for example pain, bleeding, haematoma (clot in the scrotum), and infections.
• Shorter operating time
• Quicker recovery

How do I get an appointment?

All appointments are made through the NHS Electronic Referral Service (ERS). In order to get a referral you will need to see your registered GP who will decide if it is clinically necessary and if the Community Vasectomy Service is the most appropriate service available for you. You will then be able to choose an available time and date to suit you.