WHAT IS A MICROSURGICAL VARICOCELE REPAIR?
This procedure involves using a high-powered operating microscope to visualize and divide the affected veins in the groin. It is considered a precise and effective option with a lower risk of complications and recurrence. A single small incision is made in the groin. It requires a general anaesthetic and can be performed as a day procedure.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER THE PROCEDURE?
- Bruising and swelling of the scrotum – this is common. Tight underwear and scrotal elevation using a rolled up tea towel will help limit swelling – similar to elevating an injured ankle. You may find ice packs helpful to reduce pain and swelling in the first few days after surgery (but do not apply them directly to your skin).
- You can remove your dressing after 72 hours, but you should avoid public swimming pools or prolonged hot showers/baths for 2 weeks
WHAT ABOUT EXERCISE/ACTIVITY?
- Refrain from heavy lifting or strenuous activity for at least 4 weeks to allow adequate healing and recovery
WHAT ABOUT MEDICATIONS?
You can usually continue all your regular medication. If you are on blood thinners your doctor will give you specific instructions on if and when to stop and restart them.
WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE RISKS OR COMPLICATIONS?
- Skin irritation or mild infection
- Bruising or haematoma in the groin or scrotum
- Swelling and hydrocele around the testicle
- Recurrence of varicocele
- Inadvertent damage to the vas deferens or testicular artery that may decrease testicular size
- Chronic pain
- Minimal (or no) change in semen parameters (if done for infertility)
NOTIFY GM UROLOGY or your GP if you experience any of the following:
- You have severe pain or discomfort, which is not improved with pain killers
- You have significant swelling/bruising over the surgical wound or scrotum
- You notice increasing redness, tenderness or discharge from the surgical wound(s)
- You experience symptoms such as fevers, chills, shaking, lethargy, warm skin, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, drowsiness or a general feeling of being unwell.
FOLLOW UP APPOINTMENT
Your will generally have a post-operative appointment approximately 1-2 weeks after your surgery (made prior to the operation). If an appointment time is not given to you on discharge from hospital, you will need to phone GM Urology to make an appointment.
If the procedure was done for fertility reasons, then this is when you collect your semen analysis kit. A semen analysis should be performed approximately 3 months after the procedure.
If you have any queries please contact GM Urology on 03 5201 7000 during business hours OR leave a message on the After Hours Urology Paging Service 03 9387 1000