Vasectomy: No Needle No Scalpel Technique

Vasectomy is one of the most cost-effective methods of contraception, resulting in a 5-year savings of $13,899 and prevention of about 4.2 pregnancies per person. With its
proven safety and efficacy, vasectomy enjoys a benign, even esteemed reputation today, which belies its inauspicious beginnings and turbulent history throughout much of the previous century.

Vasectomies are often performed in the office setting using local anesthesia and in general have low acute complication rates. Early complications of vasectomy include hematoma and infection.

Level I evidence indicates that the no-scalpel method is generally preferred over the conventional technique for fewer complications but it appears more difficult for physicians to learn. In a Cochrane database review Cook et al evaluated 2 randomized controlled trials comparing the scalpel and no-scalpel incisions for vasectomy. Although no difference in effectiveness was found between the 2 techniques, the authors noted that the no-scalpel approach resulted in less bleeding, hematoma, infection and pain, as well as shorter operative times.

The following video highlights the technique of no-scalpel and no-needle vasectomy, including its risks & benefits and patient outcomes.

Video by Dr. Kevin C. Zorn.