varicocele

varicocele /var·i·co·cele/ (var´ĭ-ko-sēl)

1. varicosity of the pampiniform plexus of the spermatic cord, forming a scrotal swelling that feels like a “bag of worms.”

2. a similar condition in females, with varicosity of the veins of the broad ligament of the uterus.

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var·i·co·cele (vr-k-sl)

n.

A varicose condition of veins of the spermatic cord or the ovaries, forming a soft tumor.

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Varicocele

An abnormal enlargement of the veins which drain the testicles.

Mentioned in: Scrotal Ultrasound

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varicocele

[ver′əkōsēl′]

Etymology: L, varix, varicose vein; Gk, kele, tumor

a dilation of the pampiniform venous complex of the spermatic cord. The varicocele forms a soft, elastic swelling that can cause pain. It is usually more pronounced and painful when the patient is standing. Varicoceles are most common in men between 15 and 25 years of age and affect the left spermatic cord more often than the right. Compare ovarian varicocele.

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varicocele

varicosity of the pampiniform plexus of the spermatic cord, forming a swelling in the scrotal neck that feels like a 'bag of worms'.

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varicocele

Varicose veins in scrotum Urology Elongated and dilated veins of the pampiniform plexus–the network of veins leaving the testis which join to form the testicular vein; varicoceles appear bluish through the scrotum and impart a bag of worms-like sensation to palpation Clinical Varicoceles are caused by incompetent valves in spermatic cord veins; abnormal valves obstruct normal blood flow causing a backup of blood, resulting in venous dilation; varicoceles usually develop slowly and may be asymptomatic; incidence is higher in ♂ age 15 and 25; varicoceles are linked to infertility in 40% of ♂ treated for infertility; abrupt appearance of a varicocele in older ♂ may be caused by a renal tumor affecting the renal vein and altering the blood flow through the spermatic vein

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Patient discussion about varicocele.

Q. Should I do surgery for varicoceles? I went to an urologist and he recommended surgery, but I don’t know if I should do this…is it dangerous? Can I live with the varicocele?

A. I don’t see your problem, you said an urologist advised you to do so- that should be enough no? if you don’t trust him, go and get a second opinion. The surgery is not that bad, an hour later and you are walking out. Vary small risk of complication. I did it and it was fine.