No scalpel-vasectomy is different from a conventional vasectomy in the way it is performed surgically. As the name of technique says it, no knife (scalpel) is used. An improved method of anesthesia helps make the procedure less painful.

In a conventional vasectomy, the physician may make one or two small cuts in the skin with a knife, and the doctor would then use sutures or stitches to close these cuts at the end of the procedure.

In the no-scalpel vasectomy, instead of making two incisions, the doctor makes only one or two tiny puncture into the skin with a special instrument. This same instrument is used to gently stretch the skin opening so that the tubes can be reached easily. The tubes are then blocked, using the same methods as conventional vasectomy, but because of the lack of scalpel technique there is very little bleeding and no stitches are needed to close the tiny opening. This opening will heal quickly with little or no scarring. No-scalpel vasectomy was introduced in the United States in 1988 and is now used by many doctors in this country who have mastered the technique.

Reasons for having a no-scalpel vasectomy as compared to conventional vasectomy

1. No incision with a scalpel–only a small puncture with a sharp probe
2. Usually no stitches
3. Usually a faster procedure
4. Usually a faster recovery
5. Usually less chance of bleeding and other complications
6. Usually less discomfort
7. Just as effective as regular vasectomy