Varicocele

A Varicocele is an enlargement of the veins within the scrotum, due to a problem with the valves that control the blood flow from the testicles to the body. Varicoceles are similar to varicose veins in the legs.

Normally, varicoceles are harmless and cause no problems, but some of them can cause low sperm production and decrease sperm quality, which can lead to infertility. They can also affect testicles’ normal development or shrink.

In most cases, Varicoceles develop over time, are easy to diagnose and many don't need treatment. If symptoms are shown, it often can be repaired surgically.

Symptoms, Causes and Risk Factors

Most men with the disorder do not develop symptoms and rarely causes pain, but when it does, the patient might feel some of the following:

· Sharp or dull discomfort

· Swelling in the scrotum

· A lump in one of the testicles

· Pain after exercising or after standing long periods of time

· Infertility

Causes and Risk Factors

Although the causes of Varicocele are mostly unknown, some experts affirm Varicocele forms when the valves inside the veins in the cord prevent the normal blood to flow. As a result, the veins dilate. This can cause damage to the testicle and might lead to infertility. In most cases, varicoceles form during puberty.

There are no significant risk factors due to the development of Varicoceles.

Diagnosis and Treatment

The physician will conduct a physical exam that might reveal an unusual mass above the testicle that feels like a “bag of worms”. If the mass is large enough, the doctor will feel it.

If the Varicocele has a smaller size, the doctor might ask to stand, breathe deeply, and hold it while bearing down. This will help to detect abnormalities in the veins.

In some cases, the doctor will ask to perform a scrotal ultrasound.

Prevention

Schedule an appointment with your Doctor

Treatment

Usually, varicoceles do not require treatment. Even men diagnosed can have children. However, when varicoceles inflict pain, testicular malformation, or infertility, surgical treatment is highly recommended. The purpose is to seal the affected veins and re-direct the blood flow towards normal veins.

The different types of varicocele repair are:

Microscopic varicocelectomy. In this technique, the surgeon makes a small incision above the scrotum and using a high-powered surgical microscope to repair the varicocele.
Laparoscopic varicocelectomy. A small incision in the abdomen is made and the surgeon inserts tubes to perform vein ligation.