What is Varicocele?

A varicocele is an enlarged vein usually on the left side in your scrotum. These veins are also called the pampiniform plexus. 10 to 15% of men have varicocele. It is similar to a varicose vein in your leg.

Varicocele often produces no signs or symptoms, however, possible signs and symptoms may include:

• Pain
  Discomfort or a dull pain may be felt when standing or later in the day. Lying down relieves the pain.
• A mass in the scrotum
  If a varicocele is large enough, a mass may be visible above the testicle. A smaller varicocele may be too small to see, but still noticeable by touch.
• Differently sized testicles
  The affected testicle may grow slower or shrink and be noticeably smaller than the other testicle.
• Infertility
  A varicocele may lead to difficulty fathering a child, but this is not always the case.

When should I see a doctor?

If you experience continuous pain, swelling or a mass in the scrotum, make an appointment at Blue Rock Medical to get a timely and accurate diagnosis.

Blue Rock Medical Pre-Procedure Checklist:

• Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before procedure.
• Bring a list of any known allergies and reactions.
• Bring a list of current medications and supplements: vitamins, minerals, CBD, medical marijuana, herbs, St John's-wort, ginkgo biloba, etc.
• Do not take these blood-thinners five days before procedure (aspirin, coumadin/warfarin, plavix/clopidogrel)
• Do not take Eliquis/Xarelto two days before procedure.
• Do not take NSAIDS morning of procedure: ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac, etc. (meds may be resumed after procedure as directed by physician)
• Wear comfortable clothing/shoes.
• Arrange for transportation home following procedure.
• Leave jewelry at home including earrings.
• Shave groin area (when requested)
• Expect to be at surgery center to several hours.

After the procedure

Keep neck above chest level for the next (2) hours

• No laying down for two hours after the procedure

You may remove the dressing on your neck the day after the procedure

You may shower the next day but no soaking the neck in a pool or tub for five (5) days

You may experience the following during the first few days of recovery:

• Elevated body temperature (less than 100.3 degree Fahrenheit)
• Fatigue 
• Discomfort and soreness in neck
• Pelvic cramping

Ibuprofen 600 mg every 6 hours with food can help with cramping and elevated temperature

Do not drive or operate machinery up to 8 hours after procedure

• This is due to the medication used to sedate and control pain during the procedure 

Take it easy for the next 24 hours

You will be prescribed medication after your procedure to help with pain

Contact us

If you experience signs of infection such as redness, swelling, pain, or temperature greater than 100.3 

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the procedure or recovery process call (801) 229-2002