Varicocele treatment in Jaipur
Varicoceles are enlarged veins located in the scrotum, typically resulting in minor symptoms such as scrotal swelling or aching testicular pain. Some individuals may not experience any symptoms, but varicoceles are a frequent contributor to infertility. An interventional radiologist – Dr. Deepak Agarwal diagnoses varicoceles and suggests appropriate treatment options.
What Is A Varicocele?
A varicocele is an atypical swelling of the veins within the scrotum. In the usual course of events, veins transport deoxygenated blood back to the heart, but when blood circulation is hindered, it accumulates and leads to vein enlargement. This circulatory disruption can arise from issues with vein valves or their absence, as well as vein blockages. Blockages may be triggered by blood clots, tumors, swollen lymph nodes, or pressure from neighboring blood vessels. Varicoceles share similarities with varicose veins, which commonly appear in the legs.
Symptoms
Varicoceles typically manifests no noticeable symptoms. Nonetheless, you might observe:
- Dull, persistent testicular discomfort or aching in the scrotum, which often alleviates when reclining.
- Swelling in the testicles or scrotum.
- Reduction in the size of the testicles (testicular atrophy).
- Inability to conceive after attempting for at least a year (infertility).
- A minor lump is located above the affected testicle.
When to see a doctor for Varicocele treatment in Jaipur?
Since varicoceles typically do not produce symptoms, they often do not necessitate treatment. Varicoceles may come to light during a fertility assessment or a routine physical examination.
However, if you encounter scrotal pain or swelling, detect a lump in your scrotum, observe a disparity in testicle sizes, experience the onset of a varicocele in your youth, or encounter fertility issues, it is advisable to reach out to your doctor. Several conditions can give rise to scrotal masses or testicular discomfort, some of which may demand immediate medical intervention.
Causes
Your spermatic cord serves as the conduit for blood traveling to and from your testicles. The precise origins of varicoceles remain uncertain.
Nonetheless, many specialists posit that varicoceles develop due to the malfunction of valves within the veins of the cord, hindering the proper flow of blood. This blockage leads to the dilation or widening of the veins, potentially causing harm to the testicle and adversely affecting fertility.
Varicoceles frequently emerge during puberty and are commonly observed on the left side, likely owing to the positioning of the left testicular vein.
Complications
A varicocele may lead to the following issues:
- Shrinkage of the affected testicle (atrophy): The majority of the testicle is comprised of sperm-producing tubules. When these structures become damaged, such as in the case of a varicocele, the testicle can shrink and become more pliable. The precise cause of testicular atrophy is not fully understood, but faulty valves that allow blood to accumulate in the veins can elevate vein pressure and expose the testicle to potentially damaging toxins in the bloodstream.
- Infertility: Varicoceles may elevate the local temperature in or around the testicle, adversely affecting sperm production, motility (movement), and overall function.
Diagnosis
To diagnose a varicocele, the doctor will conduct a physical examination. However, in cases of small varicoceles, they may be challenging to observe or feel. During the examination, you will be requested to stand and perform the Valsalva maneuver by holding your breath and bearing down while the physician assesses the scrotum for any enlarged veins. In some instances, an ultrasound may be ordered to visualize the veins and assess testicle sizes.
Varicocele treatment in Jaipur
An interventional radiologist will perform a minimally invasive procedure to address the varicocele. They will make a small incision in the groin area and access the femoral vein. Using a series of wires and a catheter, the testicular vein will be reached. The gonadal vein will then be occluded or blocked. Various methods can be employed to occlude the vein, including the use of sclerosants, coils, and other techniques.