Varicocelectomy

About Varicocelectomy

About

A Varicocele is an enlargement of the veins that develop in the scrotum.

Varicoceles occur in about 15% of adult men and 20% of teen males [1]

- It may have no symptoms
- Surgery may be required in case of decreased testosterone production
- Most common complication is infertility
- The procedure may not be able to fully restore fertility

A varicocelectomy is a surgery performed to remove those enlarged veins to restore proper blood flow to the reproductive organs.

When a varicocele develops in the scrotum, it can block blood flow to the rest of the reproductive system. If blood cannot return to the heart through these veins, it pools in the scrotum and the veins become abnormally large. This can decrease your sperm count.

Varicoceles often appear on the left side of the scrotum. Varicoceles on the right side are likely caused by growths or tumors.

Symptoms

Varicoceles do not generally cause any symptoms or discomfort. At the lack of pain or discomfort, varicoceles can be left without surgery to avoid any risks.

Painful varicoceles
- Switch from dull to sharp.
- Get worse upon standing or exerting oneself, especially for a long time.
- Become more intense with time.

They appear on the left side of the scrotum. Right side varicoceles are more likely due to growths or tumors. Infertility is a common complication.

Treatment

Self-care: The doctor’s instructions for cleaning incisions should be followed. Apply an ice pack to your scrotum for 10 minutes several times a day to keep swelling down.

Physical therapy: Do not do strenuous exercise or lift anything heavier than 10 pounds. Do not swim, take a bath, or otherwise immerse your scrotum in water. Do not drive or operate machinery.
In open surgery, a 1-inch cut is made in the scrotum after giving the patient local or general anesthesia. The varicocele is spotted through a microscope and removed from the area. In laparoscopic surgery, the doctor makes a much smaller cut and inserts tubes holding surgical tools and a special camera to help him see inside.

Specialists: Consult a doctor if varicocele is spotted. At mfine, we have surgeons and radiologists who can give us efficient healthcare options.