Varicocelectomy is a surgery that removes swollen veins inside the scrotum, called varicoceles. It is one of the most common surgical procedures performed at Colin Teo Urology.
Varicoceles occur when a particular type of vein in the scrotum (pampiniform plexus) enlarges, generally caused because the valves of the small veins in the scrotum do not function well. One of the functions of these veins is to drain blood out of the testicles to keep the testicles at a temperature suitable for making sperm.
This enlargement occurs during puberty and can grow over time. The enlargement of these veins does not usually cause any discomforts but may cause infertility or the slower growth of one of the two testicles. Mild aches may accompany swelling.
Varicoceles can be detected through a physical examination, where your doctor may get you to hold your breath, as this makes it easier to find any enlarged veins. An ultrasound scan will also be done if abnormalities are found during the physical examination.
Varicoceles do not usually require any treatment. However, treatment may be recommended if it accompanies fertility problems, pain, or abnormal growth of one of the testicles.
When needed, surgery is the main form of treatment. All varicocele surgeries involve blocking the blood flow in the pampiniform plexus veins and are done under general anaesthesia. The two common surgical approaches are:
The benefits of the varicocelectomy procedure are that it reduces sperm DNA damage and seminal oxidative stress, improving sperm morphology.
Another possible treatment method for varicoceles is percutaneous embolization, a non-surgical method performed by a radiologist. A balloon or coil is inserted into the veins and expanded to block blood flow in the area and reduce the size of the varicocele.
Dr Colin Teo is the Founding Head of Khoo Teck Puat Hospital’s Urology Department, with years of experience in minimally invasive keyhole surgery, operating with precision surgical techniques. Many fellows have trained under his mentorship. He did a Fellowship in EndoLaparoscopy and Andrology at St James’ Hospital in Leeds, UK and was sponsored for a Senior Healthcare Medical Development Program (HMDP) in Advanced Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgery at University of Southern California (USC) Keck Hospital in Los Angeles, USA.
He performs varicocelectomy as day surgery and provides attentive and personal peri-operative care with his dedicated clinical team to ensure an optimal recovery outcome for his patients.
If you have enquiries about varicocelectomy or would like to find out more about the diagnosis procedures of varicoceles, drop us a note. We will be happy to offer our professional advice. Contact us to book a consultation with Colin Teo Urology today.