Microsurgical varicocele repair in London

Microsurgical varicocele repair is a surgical procedure used to treat varicoceles. 

Varicoceles are enlarged veins within the scrotum, often compared to varicose veins that occur in the legs. They are relatively common, affecting about 15% of the general male population however 40-60% of men struggling with male infertility will be found to have these dilated veins in the scrotum.

Men may have absolutely no symptoms at all but they can cause a heavy, dragging pain particularly on standing or exercising. They are also associated with abnormal sperm counts, recurrent miscarriage or failed IVF cycles.  

The European association of urology guidelines now recommends treatment of varicoceles in men struggling to fall pregnant and found to have a clinical varicocele. Pippa Sangster will conduct a full examination in clinic and organise an ultrasound of your scrotum if necessary. The aim is to improve any discomfort and improve both sperm parameters and fertility outcomes.

Microsurgical varicocele repair involves making a small incision in the groin and delivering a structure called the spermatic cord. Within this cord the vas which the sperm travels through, in addition to all the veins and arteries travel to the testicle. The veins within the cord can be carefully identified and tied off using an operating microscope to magnify the surgical area. The microscope allows Miss Sangster to identify and tie off the enlarged veins, whilst carefully preserving the important arteries that supply the testicle with blood. By using microsurgery techniques, the procedure aims to minimise damage to surrounding tissues and improve outcomes.

This is a general anaesthetic, day case procedure and we would recommend 5 days off work after the procedure and no heavy lifting for 4-5 weeks.