Varicocele treatment by embolisation

WHY THIS INTERVENTION?

Varicocele is caused by dilation of the veins around the testicle. This dilation, when symptomatic, can cause testicular pain, particularly during pushing efforts, and cause a reduction in fertility due to impaired sperm production.

For anatomical reasons, the left side is mainly affected.

The principle of varicocele treatment is to block the flow of blood back to the testicle.

ARE THERE OTHER POSSIBILITIES?

PREPARATION FOR INTERVENTION

A spermogram can be carried out to detect any impairment of the vitality of your spermatozoa. Sperm conservation may be offered to you beforehand.
Any surgical procedure requires preparation which may vary depending on each individual. It is essential that you follow the recommendations given to you by your urologist and your anesthesiologist. If these recommendations are not followed, the intervention could be postponed.

As with any surgical procedure, a pre-operative anesthesia consultation is necessary a few days before the operation.

The procedure takes place under general or loco-regional anesthesia, most often on an outpatient basis.

OPERATIVE TECHNIQUE

The approach can be open surgical or laparoscopic. The choice is made according to the characteristics of the varicocele, your morphology and the habits of your surgeon.

Open surgical route

A short incision is made at or above the groin crease. The testicular veins are identified and ligated. In some cases, the procedure can be performed under an operating microscope.

USUAL SUITES

Pain at the incision and in the testicle is usually moderate and temporary.

Local home care may be prescribed.
A follow-up consultation with your urologist is planned a few weeks after the procedure.

RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS

In the majority of cases, the intervention offered to you takes place without complications. However, any surgical procedure carries a certain number of risks and complications described below.>

Some complications are linked to your general condition.
Any surgical procedure requires anesthesia, whether local-regional or general, which carries risks. They will be explained to you during the pre-operative consultation with the anesthesiologist.
Other complications directly related to the intervention are rare, but possible.

COMPLICATIONS COMMON TO ALL SURGERY ARE:

SPECIFIC TO THE INTERVENTION ARE IN ORDER OF FREQUENCY:

PRECAUTIONS ON LEAVING THE CARE FACILITY

Straining should be avoided for a month. Convalescence and sick leave are adapted to the job you do.

Baths are not recommended until healing has been achieved. Showers are possible. Sexual intercourse can be resumed a few days after the procedure when the pain disappears.