Varicocele

What is a varicocele?
Symptoms of a varicocele
Treatment of a varicocele

What is a varicocele?

A varicocele is an enlargement of veins within the scrotum and is similar to having varicose veins in your legs. Approximately one in six men (15%) have a varicocele but the majority of these will have no underlying problems or symptoms from the condition. However the incidence of a varicocele is higher in men who also have problems with infertility (about 25%).

Symptoms of a varicocele

Generally a varicocele will be asymptomatic. However some men will complain of a dragging sensation in the scrotum. This is relieved when they are lying down as the varicocele will disappear. Men presenting with infertility are sometimes found to have impaired sperm counts or sperm motility and are concerned that the varicocele may be contributing to this.

Treatment of a varicocele

When a varicocele requires treatment there are several available options:

1. Open microsurgical varicocele ligation

This procedure involves using an operating microscope to magnify the operative field and then a small incision is made in the groin. The spermatic cord, which carries the testicular veins, is identified and the veins are then separated from all the other important structures in the spermatic cord. The veins are then individually ligated.

2. Radiological embolisation

This involves a procedure performed by an interventional radiologist. A puncture is made in the femoral blood vessels and coils are used to embolise the testicular vein.

3. Laparoscopic varicocelectomy

This procedure involves keyhole surgery. The testicular vein is identified in the abdomen, then clipped and divided.