Patient's question:
What medicine can be used to treat varicocele.Doctor's answer:
Hello: Varicocele is a common disease among young and middle-aged adults, referring to the dilation of the pampiniform plexus (vein vascular plexus) in the spermatic cord caused by the congestion of blood flow in the spermatic veins. Varicocele can be accompanied by testicular atrophy and impaired sperm production, leading to male infertility. Varicocele can also be caused by renal tumors or other retroperitoneal tumors, and when it is caused by compression, it is referred to as symptomatic or secondary varicocele. Varicocele is more common on the left side. Mild cases may be asymptomatic, while more severe cases may present with a feeling of heaviness and distension in the scrotum, and lower back pain when standing for a long time. Resting in a supine position can alleviate the symptoms. If the varicocele is severe, visible worm-like dilated veins can be seen in the scrotum when the patient stands. In mild or occult varicocele, performing the Valsalva maneuver (straining to increase abdominal pressure) can make the varicocele more apparent or palpable. If the varicocele does not improve after lying down, it is considered secondary varicocele, and further examination of the abdomen and kidneys is necessary.Treatment Principles:
1. Mild cases and those without impaired sperm production do not require treatment.
2. Cases with more severe symptoms or those causing impaired testicular sperm production should undergo surgical treatment, including high ligation of the spermatic vein or anastomosis of the spermatic vein with the internal iliac vein.
3. If recurrence occurs after surgery, percutaneous transcatheter embolization of the spermatic vein can be performed.
Medication Principles:
Since varicocele can impair testicular function, medications that nourish the spermatogenic epithelium may be feasible, especially some traditional Chinese medicine herbs that support kidney function and sperm production, which can be used postoperatively. However, the primary treatment for varicocele is surgical, and it is crucial not to delay surgery due to medication use.