Varicocelectomy (Varicose Veins of the Testicle)

According to the World Health Organization, approximately 40 percent of men with male infertility are found to have varicoceles and these lesions may be correctable.

When varicoceles are present, the veins are large and lack internal valves. As a result, the blood flow goes backward into the testicles in the venous system causing a buildup of heat, pressure and poor oxygenation of the sperm producing tissue. The net effect of the backflow may be manifested as a low sperm count in the semen, poor motility, or abnormal sperm morphology. To correct these lesions, Cooper performs outpatient, subinguinal microsurgical varicocelectomy with sedation and local anesthesia. These procedures have gained wide acceptance. Recovery is also minimal, as patients typically undergo surgery on Friday and can return to work on Monday.

Statistical data on 606 procedures suggest that the semen parameters improved in 63-75 percent of the patients and that the pregnancy rates were 37.5 percent within the first year of the surgery. If pregnancies do not occur naturally, artificial insemination may be utilized after surgery.