Varicocele

A varicocele is an enlargement of veins in the scrotum, the bag-like structure that holds the testicles. A varicocele is fairly common and usually affects the left testicle. Often found during adolescence, this condition is associated with male infertility.


Symptoms

Often there are no symptoms with a varicocele. However, some patients may experience:

  • Dull ache in the groin
  • A dragging sensation in the groin, made worse when standing
  • Veins on the affected side of the scrotum may feel full and/or be purple in color


Treatment

Surgery. Varicocele repair. Performed if pain become intolerable, or to improve male sterility. In this outpatient and microsurgical procedure, the patient is given a local and general anesthetic. A small incision is made in the groin near the testicles. The veins that produced the varicocele are identified and tied. There is some discomfort, with most men resuming light work one to two days after surgery. Normally there is a quick recovery.

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