Post vasectomy pain

[robjoereed]

I am a 44 year old man and I had a vasectomy about 8 years ago.  Beginning about six months after my vasectomy I began to have pain and it got worse over time.  I finally told my doctor who sent me to a urologist.  He told me that there were no proven ways to stop the pain, but that a epididymectomy might work.  I had the surgery - on one side only - but it only produced scaring and ultimately I had to have the testicle removed.  I still have chronic and severe pain in my other testicle.  I cannot sit without a special u-shaped cushion, ride a bike, wear normal fitting pants, or touch my knees together.  Any pressure is pain.  I haven't done any research for the last five years, but I thought I would look on the web on saw your website.

Are there any options for stopping my pain and would you please provide a name of a qualified doctor in my area - Rochester, NY.

Any help will be greatly appreciated.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

I would suggest another urology referral - preferably at an academic medical center (i.e. University of Rochester).  Imaging, either MRI or ultrasound, can be considered to see if there is any structural abnormality that may be causing your symptoms.  Scar tissue can certainly be a possibility and may be contributing to the discomfort.  

Another consideration would be evaluating the prostate - since prostate pain can radiate to the testicles and scrotum.  A thorough digital rectal exam, as well as possible imaging (i.e. a transrectal ultrasound) can be considered and discussed with your urologist.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b