What is varicocele?
Varicocele is the abnormal enlargement of the veins around the testicle and varicose veins.
It is often seen in the left testicle, but it can also be seen in the right testicle. Sometimes it can be bilateral.
It usually occurs before puberty. It is seen in 15-20% of children in adolescence.
What are the causes of varicocele in children?
Usually, the left testicular vein angles to the left renal vein instead of the main abdominal vein. It develops as a result of mouthing. However, in varicoceles that appear suddenly or are seen on the right side, there may be a mass in the abdomen that causes this. In these cases, the abdominal area should be examined with ultrasound.
What are the risks of varicocele in children?
It can damage sperm development by damaging testicular cells and cause infertility in the future. it could be. Approximately 20% of them have problems conceiving at an older age.
How is varicocele diagnosed in children?
It usually occurs due to swelling or pain in the testicle.
However, it can also be noticed by chance; Parents notice varicocele as a swelling in the scrotum during bathing or when dressing the child.
In which cases should varicocele be operated on in children?
Most children can be monitored without surgery.
Situations requiring surgery for varicocele:
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There is more than 20% shrinkage in the testicle with varicocele compared to the side with normal testicle,
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Presence of severe pain that affects social life,
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The presence of the highest degree of severe varicocele that can be easily noticed by eye.
Which methods are used in varicocele surgery in children?
Micro-surgery (microscopic surgery) method:
<The enlarged veins are accessed through a 1-2 centimeter incision made in the groin area.
Under high magnification, large varicose veins are released one by one, tied and cut separately.
However, during these procedures, arteries, lymph vessels and sperm ducts are damaged. should not be harmed.
In addition, the enlarged vascular bundle can be ligated and cut using the laparoscopic method.
What kind of complications may develop after varicocele surgery in children?
Complications may develop at a rate of approximately 10% after varicocele surgery. The most common problems are recurrence of varicocele, hydrocele, and testicular shrinkage.
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