Varicocele

Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison

Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Varicocele

Male reproductive system

Varicocele

Alternative Names:

Varicose veins - scrotum
Treatment:

Varicoceles may be managed with a scrotal support. However, if pain continues, or if infertility or testicular atrophy results, further treatment may be needed. Treatments include open surgical removal, laparoscopic removal, and catheter embolization.

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Both open and laparoscopic varicocelectomy (the surgical correction of a varicocele) are performed on an outpatient basis. The cut is usually made in the lower abdomen, although various techniques can be used. Ice packs should be kept to the area for the first 24 hours after surgery to reduce swelling.

Catheter ablation is also done as an outpatient procedure. A small puncture is madeat the crease where the leg joins the body.

You will be advised to use ice and to wear a scrotal support for some time after surgery. Possible complications include hematoma (blood clot formation), infection, or injury to the scrotal t issue or structures. In addition, injury to the artery that supplies the testicle may occur.

Expectations (prognosis):

A varicocele is usually harmless and often requires no treatment. If surgery is required because of infertility or testicular atrophy, the outlook is usually excellent.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you discover a testicle lump or need to treat a diagnosed varicocele.