Varicocele

Varicocele refers to the enlargement of the veins within the scrotum (pampiniform plexus). The veins of the pampiniform plexus carry oxygen-depleted blood from the testicles. Varicocele occurs when blood pools in these veins instead of circulating efficiently out of the scrotum. It usually develops during puberty and is most commonly found on the left side. It can cause discomfort or pain in the scrotum and groin area, but often it is asymptomatic. Varicocele can lead to poor testicular development and low sperm production, potentially resulting in infertility. In cases of these complications, surgical treatment is recommended, involving the tying and cutting of the pampiniform plexus veins (Ivanissevich procedure; microscopic varicocelectomy) or the tying and cutting of the testicular vein (open or laparoscopic Palomo procedure).