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What is a varicocele?
Varicocele is the growth of the veins of the scrotum, usually and mostly on the left side. A varicocele is similar to a varicose vein of a lower extremity.
Varicoceles could be the cause of low sperm production and low quality, or they can cause the testicles to not develop normally or shrink. Sometimes, it can also cause symptoms (pain or heaviness). It is in these cases that varicocele can be surgically operated on.
Most varicoceles manifest in early adolescence. Fortunately, most varicoceles are easy to diagnose and many do not need treatment.
What are the symptoms of a varicocele?
- Testicular pain or discomfort
- Heaviness
- Worse with the course of the day increase with walking or exertion.
- Alteration of fertility
Varicocele diagnosis
Varicocele is usually diagnosed by routine physical examination. However, a testicular ultrasound will be requested in consultations to complement the diagnosis.
Varicocele treatment
The treatment of choice at our Parc Taulí center is the Laparoscopic Pigeon Technique. We will propose a minimally invasive surgery through 3 abdominal ports.
Potential complications of varicocele
- Shrinkage of the affected testicle (atrophy).
- Sterility.