Post Vasectomy Pain Syndrome

It is important to consider the various complications that can occur during this procedure. One that men might experience is referred to as post vasectomy pain syndrome. This condition consists of chronic pain that lasts for a long time. It is not always known what will trigger it – but they do know that the pain is made up of testicular backpressure, fibrosis, sperm granulomas, chronic inflammation, nerve entrapment, and electrical activity changes located in the vas deferens.

Congestive Epididymitis

The pain can manifest itself in several ways. The first is orchialgia – also known as congestive epididymitis. This will occur during intercourse, physical exertion, ejaculation, and a full or tender epididymides. After the vasectomy there will be increased pressure in the vas on the testicular side. For some men this can be too swollen and distended to create backpressure.

The efferent somniferous tubules and ducts can also be affected by the backpressure and create an unnatural thickness. This will completely block the vas deferens and cause an epidermal blowout. These lesions are benign and asymptomatic. Post vasectomy pain syndrome is actually more common in men who do not suffer from lesions.

Cysts

It is natural for the body to create a scar like tissue when it has become injured. This is the same for men who have had a vasectomy. The clamping of the vas deferens might produce disruption of the muscle and fibrosis. When the diameter of the vas lumen is smaller than the thickness of the wall then the thick muscle layers will become disrupted. This will cause sperm accumulation and cysts will form from the fluid that spreads between the layers.

Sperm Granulomas

There are times when sperm will leak from the vas deferens and the epididymides. This will form lesions inside of the scrotum referred to as sperm granulomas. These are usually quite painful and in some cases will help prevent post vasectomy pain syndrome.

Nerve Damage

In some cases the nerves will become trapped inside of the fibrous tissue that is caused by a vasectomy. The pain from this will become more apparent during intercourse or ejaculation. This is because the muscles during this time will elevate the testis. During a vasectomy some nerves that run parallel to the vas can be damaged or cut.