Varicocelectomy
Varicocelectomy is a surgical procedure to remove or tie off enlarged veins in the scrotum, known as varicoceles, which can cause pain, swelling, or infertility. The procedure is typically performed through small incisions or laparoscopically to reduce the veins and improve blood flow. Varicocelectomy can help alleviate symptoms and improve sperm quality in men with infertility issues. It is usually considered when conservative treatments, such as pain management, are ineffective.
Varicocelectomy is a surgical procedure to remove or tie off enlarged veins in the scrotum, known as varicoceles, which can cause pain, swelling, or infertility. The procedure is typically performed through small incisions or laparoscopically to reduce the veins and improve blood flow. Varicocelectomy can help alleviate symptoms and improve sperm quality in men with infertility issues. It is usually considered when conservative treatments, such as pain management, are ineffective.
Treatment
Surgical Approaches:
Open Surgery:
Inguinal or Subinguinal Approach: A small incision is made in the groin area to access and ligate the affected veins. This method allows for direct visualization and is commonly performed under general or local anesthesia.
Microsurgical Varicocelectomy:
Utilizing a high-powered operating microscope, this technique enhances precision in identifying and preserving vital structures such as arteries and lymphatic vessels. The procedure typically lasts about 30 minutes per side and is often performed on an outpatient basis.
Laparoscopic Varicocelectomy:
Involves making small abdominal incisions through which a laparoscope and surgical instruments are inserted. This minimally invasive approach allows for the isolation and ligation of the internal spermatic veins near their drainage point into the renal vein.
Percutaneous Embolization:
A less common, minimally invasive procedure where a catheter is inserted into a vein in the groin or neck. Coils or sclerosing agents are then used to block the blood flow to the varicocele. This method is typically reserved for cases where surgical approaches are not feasible.