MICROSURGICAL VARICOCELE LIGATION
The microsurgical varicocele ligation is a procedure performed using a high-powered operating microscope. This procedure aims to eliminate varicoceles or large, dilated veins of the spermatic cord in the testicles.
Varicoceles are enlarged or dilated veins that forms in one or both testicles. The veins become large due to the pooling of blood. This can not only cause fertility problems but also become painful and unsightly.
Patients suffering from varicoceles will most likely experience the condition on the left side of the body or the left testicle. Varicoceles can cause a dragging, heavy sensation in the testicles. Suffers may also feel aches and pains in the scrotum. Pain can occur after long periods of standing.
preparation for MICROSURGICAL VARICOCELE LIGATION
The underlining cause of varicoceles is unknown. Patients can suffer issues with their kidneys due to varicoceles.
The standard way to remove varicoceles from patients is through a microsurgical varicocele ligation procedure or embolisation. This can provide men with pain relief.
Doctors will grade a patient’s varicoceles based on their size. Size is graded between 1 and 3 with largest or most visible being given the higher number.
Varicoceles often occur in men with fertility issues. Currently, infertility experts are split on whether fixing varicoceles help fertility in patients. However, it is now believed that varicocele treatment can improve natural pregnancy rates and even improve the results from IVF/ICSI. There is evidence that varicocele treatment can lower sperm DNA damage. It may take up to 3-6 months, before the beneficial effects of treatment are seen.
MICROSURGICAL VARICOCELE LIGATION PROCEDURE
Your surgeon will make an incision in the scrotum where the spermatic cord is dissected. It is here that the abnormal veins are discovered. The veins will be dissected and tied off to drain blood away from the testicles. There can be several complications with the procedure. The microsurgical varicocele ligation approach can minimise the complications patients face.
RECOVERY OF A MICROSURGICAL VARICOCELE LIGATION PROCEDURE
Men may suffer from pain in their groin for three to six weeks following microsurgical varicocele ligation. The scrotum may also bruise and swell. This can last up to four weeks. On average, men who undergo the procedure will return to work in three days. Jobs in which men perform physical activity will most likely remain out of work for a week. Swelling and pain can be reduced by applying ice to the affected area. In addition, men may choose to wear snug fitting underpants to hold the scrotum in place. Patients may take over the counter painkillers to reduce swelling and pain.
CONTACT US
Get in Touch
Use the secure form to send a message regarding any concerns you may have. Should you have any information regarding a referral from a GP please also include this and we will be in touch with next steps.
18 Devonshire Street, London W1G 7AF