A vasectomy is a surgical procedure in which the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra, are cut, tied, or sealed to prevent the release of sperm during ejaculation. The procedure is usually performed at a doctor's office or surgery center under local anesthesia. During the surgery, a small section of the vas deferens is cut out and removed. The vas deferens is cut and sealed in order to prevent sperm from mixing with the semen and being released from the body during ejaculation. The procedure usually takes about 10 minutes and can be performed on both testicles during the same visit.