Patient's question:
Is varicocele serious? Is surgery necessary? How long is the hospital stay for surgery?Doctor's answer:
Varicocele refers to the abnormal dilatation and tortuosity of veins in the spermatic cord due to impaired venous. Patients with varicocele may be completely asymptomatic and only detected during physical examination. The affected scrotum or testis may experience a sensation of heaviness, fullness, or pain. The scrotum may appear enlarged, with the affected side being higher than the healthy side when standing. Expanded and tortuous veins are visible on the surface of the scrotum. A soft, worm-like mass may be palpable, and symptoms may be reduced or disappear when lying down. Patients may also exhibit neurotic symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and hyperesthesia. Some patients may experience sexual dysfunction. Varicocele can sometimes affect fertility.