Changes After Vasectomy: What to Know About Hard Lumps

Can you feel it?

My husband has been vasectomized for over three years.
After the procedure, we could feel hard lumps on both sides of his testicles (which should be the tied-off vas deferens), but in the past few months, we can no longer feel them.
Should we be concerned that they might have reconnected on their own?

Ting Ting, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/02/20

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology

Although the probability is low, there is still a possibility.
If there are concerns, it is advisable to consult a urologist for a semen analysis.

Reply Date: 2021/02/20

More Info

After a vasectomy, it is common for men to experience changes in the texture and feel of the scrotum and testicles. The presence of hard lumps or nodules on either side of the testicles is often related to the surgical procedure itself, particularly the way the vas deferens (the tube that carries sperm) is cut and sealed. These lumps can be a result of scar tissue formation, which is a normal part of the healing process after surgery.

In your husband's case, the hard lumps he felt on either side of the testicles could indeed be scar tissue or possibly the ends of the vas deferens that were tied off during the procedure. Over time, these lumps may become less prominent or even disappear as the body continues to heal and the scar tissue remodels. It is not uncommon for men to notice changes in these lumps, including a reduction in size or even the inability to feel them after several months or years post-surgery.

Regarding your concern about the possibility of the vas deferens reconnecting on its own, it is important to note that while spontaneous recanalization (the process where the cut ends of the vas deferens reconnect) can occur, it is relatively rare. Most studies suggest that the rate of spontaneous recanalization is low, particularly if the vasectomy was performed correctly and the ends were adequately sealed. If your husband has not experienced any signs of fertility (such as pregnancy in a partner) since the vasectomy, it is unlikely that the vas deferens has reconnected.

However, if there are any new symptoms, such as pain, swelling, or changes in the lumps, it would be advisable for your husband to consult with a healthcare provider. They may perform a physical examination and possibly an ultrasound to assess the situation further. It is also important to monitor for any signs of complications, such as infection or a condition known as sperm granuloma, which can occur when sperm leaks from the cut end of the vas deferens and causes an inflammatory reaction.

In summary, the changes your husband is experiencing with the hard lumps after his vasectomy are likely normal and related to the healing process. The disappearance of these lumps over time is not unusual, and the likelihood of spontaneous reconnection of the vas deferens is low. However, if there are any concerns or new symptoms, seeking medical advice is always a prudent step. Regular follow-ups with a urologist can provide reassurance and address any questions regarding post-vasectomy changes.

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