Varicocelectomy
Non-surgical treatment is to use a scrotal support and for any associated pain, ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
Decisions about surgical repair of the varicocele are based upon differences in testicular size, amount of pain, and semen analysis (in the teenage or adult patient only).
Surgery involves cutting the veins that cause the varicocele. An incision is made in the groin. After the scrotal veins are found, they are cut to stop the blood flow. Risks include return of varicocele, bleeding, infection, occurrence of hydrocele (fluid around the testicle) and anesthesia risk.
Another option is a percutaneous embolization. This is done in a special x-ray department room. A catheter is inserted into a vein in the patient’s groin. The x-ray doctor locates the enlarged veins in the scrotum. Then, a blockage is created in those veins. The blockage will stop the blood flow and the enlarged veins should disappear. This procedure risks include infection, blood clot, and injury to scrotal tissue. The x-ray doctor will give discharge instructions.
Both procedures allow same day discharge.
