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About the Surgery |
A varicocele is where the veins of the spermatic cord become swollen, distended and knotted - forming a swelling in the scrotum that is classically described as a "bag of worms". It occurs more commonly on the left side and the underlying cause is not known. |
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Aim of Surgery |
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How Long is Surgery |
30 to 45 minutes |
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Anaesthetic |
General anaesthetic is the preferred method for this procedure. Your surgeon will place local anaesthetic in the wound at the end of the operation whilst you are still asleep to minimize the discomfort felt after the general anaesthetic wears off. |
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Incision/Cut |
Lower abdomen on the side of the varicocele. |
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Description of Surgery |
After you are asleep the surgeon will shave the groin area at the site of incision. An incision is made in the lower abdomen on the side of the varicocele. The testicular veins are identified taking care to preserve the artery and principle nerves. There are usually 2 to 3 veins, each vein is then tied off. The wound is then closed in layers usually with dissolving skin stitches. A dressing is then applied. |
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Complications of Surgery |
Post operative pain
Infection
Bleeding
Recurrent of varicocele (45%)
Hydrocele formation (1-2%)
Testicular shrinkage and loss (1%) due to disruption of the blood supply of the testes. |
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Duration of Hospital Stay |
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