Varicocele & Hydrocoel Surgery
What is Varicocele?
Varicocele is a condition in which the veins in the scrotum, particularly the pampiniform plexus and testicular veins, become enlarged and twisted. It is more commonly seen in young, tall, and thin men, especially on the left side due to anatomical reasons.
Causes
- Often idiopathic (without a known cause)
- Left-sided varicocele is more common due to the drainage pattern of veins on that side
Symptoms
- Dull, dragging pain in the groin or scrotum
- Swelling near the base of the scrotum
- A feeling like a “bag of worms” in the scrotum
- Pain may reduce when lying down
- May contribute to male infertility
Treatment
Surgical treatment (either laparoscopic or open surgery) is recommended if:
- Pain persists
- There is oligospermia (low sperm count)
Post-surgery, improvements in sperm count and pain relief are generally seen within 6–12 weeks, and conception rates may improve.
What is Hydrocele?
Hydrocele is a collection of fluid between the two layers of the tunica vaginalis (the covering around the testis). It is usually painless but can cause noticeable scrotal swelling.
Causes
- Primary hydrocele: due to poor absorption of fluid by the tunica vaginalis, often following minor infections
- Secondary hydrocele: occurs due to conditions like Epididymo-orchitis, Filariasis, Testicular tumors
Symptoms
- Painless swelling of the scrotum
- Feeling of heaviness or discomfort
- In larger cases, it may lead to social discomfort or cosmetic concern
Treatment
While many patients delay treatment due to the painless nature of the condition, surgery is advised once the swelling becomes large or symptomatic.
- The standard treatment is Jaboulay’s eversion of the sac (a simple surgical procedure)
- If there’s an underlying medical cause, appropriate medical treatment is given alongside surgery
