New microsurgical techniques show promise for reversal of male and female sterilization.

Microsurgical reversal of male and female sterilization is reported. Normal sperm counts were found at 3-month's follow-up in 207 of 255 men whose vasectomies were reversed by the microsurgical technique. This technique was also successful in 41 of 53 cases in which conventional reanastomosis methods had been unsuccessful. The length of time since vasectomy and the presence of sperm granulomas are apparently important factors in the degree of successful restoration of fertility. In 28 attempts to restore fertility in women, 70% have been successful. Only 3 of these women have yet to have delivered a normal infant. Background characteristics of women requesting reversal of sterilization at the University of Pennsylvania hospital are reported. Many of these women had been sterilized at a relatively young age (25) and were of low parity (2.4-3.3). Aspects of the operative procedures are described.