Final answer:
Common surgical sterilization procedures include vasectomy in males and tubal ligation in females, both designed to prevent sperm from participating in fertilization and considered generally irreversible.
Step-by-step explanation:
The surgical sterilization procedure that is regularly used to render an individual unable to produce offspring is tubal ligation in females and vasectomy in males. During a vasectomy, the vas deferens are clamped, cut, or otherwise sealed, which prevents sperm from being ejaculated. In contrast, during a tubal ligation, the Fallopian tubes are tied, cut, or blocked by tiny metal implants, preventing sperm from reaching and fertilizing eggs. Both procedures are usually considered irreversible and are the most effective contraceptive methods.