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Varicocel

In Andrología Mallorca, we are specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of varicocele, using advanced microsurgical techniques to guarantee the best results and optimal recovery.

What is varicocele?

Varicocele is an abnormal dilation of the veins of the sperm cord, responsible for draining the blood of the testicles. It is a relatively common condition in men, especially in adolescence and young adulthood, and can affect semen quality, being one of the main causes of male infertility

Is it normal to have varicocele?

Varicocele occurs in about a 15% of men and in up to a 40% of men with fertility problems. While it is a common condition, it does not always cause symptoms or require treatment. However, when it causes discomfort, affects the quality of the sperm or causes differences in testicular size, it is advisable to address it with a specialist in andrology.

Main causes of varicocele

The varicocele is an abnormal dilation of the veins of the spermatic cord, similar to varices in the legs. It occurs when the blood flow in the testicles is affected, causing a buildup of blood that can lead to discomfort and, in some cases, fertility problems. Some of the main causes of varicocele are as follows:

Malfunction of venous valves

The spermatic cord veins have valves that regulate blood return. If these valves do not function properly, blood accumulates and causes venous dilation.

Anatomical Factors

Varicocele is most common in the left testis due to the arrangement of the testicular veins. The left spermatic vein drains into the renal vein at an angle that hinders venous return, which favors its dilation.

Doppler Ultrasound

Increased venous pressure

Compression of the spermatic vein by proximal structures, such as the superior mesenteric artery and aorta, can hinder blood drainage and favor the development of the varicocele.
Fertility Study

Hormonal Factors

Alterations in hormone levels can affect blood circulation and predispose to the appearance of varicocele.

Genetic predisposition

People with a family history of varicose veins or other circulatory problems are at increased risk of developing varicocele.

Doppler Ultrasound

Varicocele usually develops progressively, usually in adolescence or young adulthood. Although it is often asymptomatic, in some cases it can cause pain, a feeling of heaviness or infertility, so an early diagnosis is key to its treatment.

Symptoms of varicocele

Not all men with varicocele have symptoms, but when they do appear, they may include:

  • Testicular discomfort or heaviness, especially after standing for a long time or after exercise.
  • Dilated or visible veins in the scrotum, similar to varicose veins.
  • Difference in size between one testicle and another.
  • Decrease in semen quality, which can affect fertility.


If you have any of these symptoms, at Andrology Mallorca we have specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of varicocele, with advanced options such as subinguinal microsurgery.

Diagnosis of varicocele

The diagnosis of varicocele is made as follows:

Physical examination

Palpación de la zona testicular, especialmente con la maniobra de Valsalva.

Doppler Ultrasound

It evaluates the blood flow and the dilation of the veins.

doppler ultrasound

Fertility study

In case of problems conceiving or alterations in semen.

Fertility Study

Treatment in Mallorca: Subinguinal microsurgical varicocelectomy (low)

At Andrología Mallorca we perform the subinguinal microsurgical varicocelectomy, considered the most effective technique and with fewer complications.

How is it done?

Through a small incision in the lower groin area, the surgeon uses a surgical microscope to accurately identify the affected veins and ligate them without damaging arteries or lymphatic vessels.

Advantages of subinguinal microsurgery
in Mallorca

  • Mayor tasa de éxito y menor riesgo de recurrencia.
  • Recuperación más rápida y menos dolor postoperatorio.
  • Menor riesgo de complicaciones, como la acumulación de líquido en el escroto (hidrocele).
  • Resultados óptimos para la fertilidad, mejorando la calidad del semen en muchos pacientes.

Do you need more information about the varicocele?

If you have testicular discomfort, fertility problems or have been diagnosed with a varicocele, at Andrology Mallorca we can advise you and offer you the most advanced treatment with specialized microsurgery. Make an appointment with our experts.
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