Varicoceles are present in 15% of men since puberty and are dilated veins that drain blood from the testicles. Like external varicose veins, varicoceles dilate due to defective valves that are unable to efficiently shunt blood away from the testes. The resulting blood stasis brings heat to the testicles, normally 1–2°C below core body temperature for optimal function. Prolonged raised testicular temperature can kill germ cells that produce sperm, reduces testicular size, damages sperm DNA, and decreases testosterone production. Varicoceles, most common in the left testicle, are present in up to 45% of men with primary infertility.  2%–10% of men with varicoceles report dull, throbbing testicular pain that worsens with strain.  So how can The Y Factor determine if you have varicocele veins? Diagnosis is made by a specialized physical exam that is confirmed by ultrasound. 

At The Y Factor, we specialize in the Microsurgical Subinguinal Varicocelectomy. This is the gold standard of varicocele treatment and is a 30-minute procedure that is backed by urological research to show improvements in testicular health. The procedure starts with a microsurgical incision in the groin skin and a surgical microscope is used to magnify and find the varicoceles that are then clamped with surgical clips. The skin incision is only closed with dissolvable sutures and men can expect minimal down time during recovery and optimal improvement in testicular health.

There are other forms to treat varicoceles like embolization. This is performed by radiologists and laparoscopic treatment of varicocele is much less frequently performed for this condition for various reasons.

Dr. Russel Williams, MD a reproductive urologist trained in microsurgery, male fertility and testosterone has performed microscopic varicocele repairs for 25 years.