Page Options

Varicocele

What is a varicocele?
A varicocele is a cluster of dilated veins located next to the testicle, which feels like a bag of worms. Varicoceles are common; affecting about 15-20% of adult males. They are usually found on the left side but can be on both sides. They are most commonly seen during puberty, but do occur earlier.

Varicocele is sometimes associated with decreased or impaired fertility or the ability to have children. However, most males with varicocele have no problems with fertility.

What are the symptoms?
Most children will not complain of any symptoms.

If a child has symptoms, they tend to occur, after heavy exercise, or after standing or sitting for a long period of time.

The child may complain of:

Dull ache in the testicles
Feeling of heaviness or dragging in the scrotum

You may notice:

Dilated veins in the scrotum that feel like "a bag of worms"
Testicle is smaller on the side where the dilated veins are

How is a varicocele diagnosed?
A varicocele is most commonly found upon physical exam by a doctor or by the patient himself. Varicoceles are rarely painful.

A scrotal/testicular ultrasound may be ordered to determine the size of the testicles and the extent of the varicocele. The doctor may also ask for a semen analysis to be performed, in the older child, to help determine if fertility might be impaired.

What is the treatment?
The treatment depends on the patient and their symptoms. If the child is not having any symptoms, the testicles may be evaluated on a yearly basis to ensure adequate growth of the testicles. If growth is adequate, observation would continue and surgery may not be necessary.

If your child is experiencing pain, the testicle is not growing adequately, or if the semen analysis is abnormal, surgical repair of the varicocele may be indicated to correct the problem. The procedure is called a varicocelectomy. The procedure is performed in the operating room, while the child is asleep under general anesthesia. The procedure may be performed laparoscopically or via a small incision is made in the groin and the vessels that are causing the problem are tied off.

The physicians of Georgia Urology have expertise in evaluation and treatment of varicocele in children and adults. Call today to schedule an appointment in one of our convenient office locations.