A varicocele is an abnormal dilation of the network of veins that drain the testicles. It is caused by the improper flow of blood along the spermatic cord. It typically occurs on the left side of the scrotum, but it can appear on both sides. In the majority of cases, varicoceles are usually asymptomatic.
When they occur, the symptoms usually involve discomfort like scrotal or testicular pain. This condition is sometimes discovered during examinations that are being performed due to male infertility.
At the Serrate & Ribal Institute of Urology, our first option for diagnosing a varicocele is the Eco-Doppler, which uses ultrasound to enable the study of blood flow in a manner that is safe, quick and comfortable for the patient.
The treatment for this condition is surgical and is indicated for patients who present pain, infertility or signs of testicular atrophy. It is a simple intervention during which our specialist team locates, ligates and divides the abnormally dilated testicular veins. Regional or general anaesthesia is used and a postoperative period of one to three days is required; stitches are removed on an outpatient basis.