Varicocelectomy may be a life-changing procedure for men who struggle with infertility and discomfort in the scrotal area. This is a surgical procedure that involves removing the swollen varicose veins in the scrotum that can cause infertility and discomfort.

Varicocelectomy offers men hope for improved fertility and a return to normal activities without discomfort.

Let’s understand varicocelectomy in detail!

What is Varicocelectomy?

Varicocelectomy is a surgical procedure to remove varicoceles and enlarged veins in the scrotum that can cause infertility in men.

Varicocele is a condition where the veins in the scrotum become enlarged and swollen. This leads to poor blood circulation around the testicles, causing a reduction in sperm production and quality, which in turn can result in infertility.

The swelling may also cause pain and discomfort to men, hindering an active life. Varicocelectomy is often the only option for restoring proper blood flow to the testicles by addressing the swollen veins and normalizing the scrotum.

When is it recommended?

It may be recommended:

• When a man has infertility issues, varicoceles are identified as a contributing factor
• When a man experiences pain or discomfort in the scrotal area
• When a varicocele causes decreased testicular size or function

Who is a good candidate for varicocelectomy?

The doctor may recommend Varicocelectomy to

• Men with infertility issues and a confirmed diagnosis of varicoceles
• Men who experience pain or discomfort in the scrotal area
• Men with a noticeable decrease in testicular size or function
• Men with a family history of varicoceles and infertility

A varicocelectomy procedure can potentially treat blocked varicoceles, treating subfertility and improving your chances of natural pregnancy.

The procedure of varicocelectomy: A journey to a solution  

Varicocelectomy involves cutting the enlarged veins in the scrotum, known as varicoceles, and closing off the ends. The surgery can be performed through two approaches: Open surgery and Minimally Invasive Surgery. The minimally invasive surgery uses techniques that minimally damage skin and tissues.

There are two MISS (Minimally Invasive Scrotal Surgery) – varicocelectomy approaches-  Laparoscopic surgery and Microsurgical varicocelectomy.

Let’s discuss it!

1) Laparoscopic varicocelectomy: 

In this, the surgeon makes 2-4 tiny cuts (incisions) in your lower abdomen. Then, a laparoscope (a thin rod with a camera attached) is inserted through one of the incisions to see your varicocele on a display monitor screen. When the swollen varicoceles are identified, precise instruments are inserted through other cuts to operate on your varicocele. The scope allows the doctor to work through these tiny/small incisions.

The varicocelectomy laparoscopic surgery is supposed to give more clear and accurate results because the operation is done in conjugation with a live feed. 

2) Microsurgical varicocelectomy

The surgeon will take multiple scans of the scrotum beforehand to prepare for the surgery. First, he will make tiny incision/s in the lower abdomen, near the groin area. Then a powerful operative microscope is used to look at your varicocele, and tiny instruments are used to operate on your varicocele.

The surgery involves decongesting multiple intermingled swollen varicoceles through microsurgery and fixing the blockage issue. 

Minimally Invasive varicocelectomy procedures have minimal post-operative pain, a shorter hospital stay and an early return to normal activities.

Open surgery:

This technique is applicable when the surgeon needs a clear view of the operation site. It is more invasive and needed for complicated or severe cases.

During all the above varicocelectomy surgery, the patient is given anesthesia to numb the sensations. The surgeries complete anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the type of varicocelectomy performed.

Recovery from varicocelectomy

The recovery happens in the following ways:

• The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis using local or general anesthesia.
• You may experience swelling and discomfort for several days to a few weeks after the surgery.
• Pain medication and ice packs can be used to manage discomfort.
• You are advised to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for several weeks after the surgery.
• You can return to work and normal activities within a few days to a week after the procedure.
• Fertility improvements can be seen over several months to year after the surgery, but it may take longer for some men.

Varicocelectomy is a relatively safe and common procedure for men to reverse signs of subfertility or infertility. The procedure results in decreased testicular pain and increased self-esteem. It may also improve sperm and testosterone production and is therefore considered a prudent fertility solution for men.

At Zivia IVF, we have a world-class facility and highly professional fertility experts with exceptional calibre and compassion for their work.

Book an appointment and discuss your fertility concerns with us.