Varicocele

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Preserving fertility and testicular comfort

Dr. Davy Benarroche, urologist and andrologist surgeon, is an expert in the treatment of varicocele by microsurgical subinguinal approach.

Varicocele

Varicocele

For more information, you can visit my website dedicated to varicocele: varicoceleparis.com

What is a varicocele?

  • Asymptomatic, discovered incidentally during an infertility assessment.
  • Or manifest itself through:
Dr Davy Benarroche - Parcours académiqueDr Davy Benarroche - Parcours académiqueDr Davy Benarroche
What is the link between varicocele and fertility?

What is the link between varicocele and fertility?

Varicocele is one of the most common causes of male infertility , affecting approximately 15% of men and up to 40% of infertile men . It acts through several mechanisms: elevated testicular temperature , which is detrimental to sperm production; hypoxia and oxidative stress, which damage the testicle; and impaired spermatogenesis, resulting in decreased sperm concentration, motility, and morphology. Surgical treatment often leads to a significant improvement in sperm count and a restoration of natural fertility potential , sometimes avoiding the need for assisted reproductive technology (ART).

Expertise

Varicocele

Dr. Benarroche offers individualized care for varicocele, from precise diagnosis to surgical treatment when necessary.

Peut-on faire du sport avec une varicocèle ? Réponse du Dr Davy Benarroche, urologue à ParisPeut-on faire du sport avec une varicocèle ? Réponse du Dr Davy Benarroche, urologue à ParisDr Davy Benarroche

The diagnosis

  • The clinical examination, which allows the varicocele to be classified into several grades according to its visibility and palpability.
  • A sperm analysis, routinely performed when planning to become a father, to assess the impact on fertility.
  • Scrotal ultrasound with Doppler, which confirms the dilation of the veins and venous reflux.

Experience

Academic background

Dr. Benarroche offers care focused on men’s health , combining a medical and surgical approach, tailored to the needs of each patient.

La varicocèle peut-elle faire baisser la testostérone ? Réponse du Dr Davy Benarroche, urologueLa varicocèle peut-elle faire baisser la testostérone ? Réponse du Dr Davy Benarroche, urologueDr Davy Benarroche

Microscopic surgery via the subinguinal approach

Principle: The standard treatment today is microscopic subinguinal surgery , which involves ligating the dilated veins responsible for reflux, while preserving the testicular arteries and lymphatic vessels . This technique is performed: Under general anesthesia , through a small incision (2 to 3 cm) below the groin crease. With the aid of an operating microscope , allowing for detailed dissection and precise identification of the structures.

Advantages of the microsurgical technique

  • An extremely low relapse rate.
  • A more marked improvement in sperm parameters.
  • A near-zero recurrence of hydrocele (thanks to the preservation of the lymphatic vessels).
  • Better preservation of testicular function in the long term.
  • A rapid resumption of activities.
  • A better spontaneous pregnancy rate after treatment.

Post-operative care

The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis (you return home the same day). Moderate discomfort may persist for a few days. Sexual intercourse and sports activities can generally be resumed after 2 to 3 weeks . A clinical and ultrasound examination is recommended at 3 months, along with a follow-up semen analysis to assess functional recovery.

In summary

Varicocele is a common condition that can impair male fertility. Microsurgical subinguinal surgery is currently the most precise and effective technique for correcting varicocele, with proven reproductive results and optimal postoperative comfort.

Specialized management of varicocele.

Contact me today for a personalized consultation

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell if I have a varicocele?

A varicocele manifests as a feeling of heaviness in the testicle (often the left one), which worsens at the end of the day or after exertion, and sometimes as palpable veins resembling worm sacs. The diagnosis is confirmed by clinical examination and testicular Doppler ultrasound.

Can varicocele affect fertility and testosterone?

Yes. By raising testicular temperature, a varicocele can impair sperm quality and, in some cases, testosterone production. It is a common and reversible cause of male infertility.

Who needs surgery?

Treatment is indicated in cases of persistent pain, abnormal sperm counts in the context of infertility, or testicular atrophy in adolescents. An asymptomatic varicocele without any significant impact requires simple monitoring.

What does the treatment consist of?

Two effective options are interventional radiology embolization (occlusion of the vein endovascularly, without incision) and microsurgical ligation. Both are performed on an outpatient basis, with an improvement in sperm count observed within 3 to 6 months.

When is it necessary to operate on a varicocele?

In cases of associated male infertility, painful discomfort, or testicular atrophy.

Is it possible to achieve a natural pregnancy after surgery?

Yes, in many cases, a spontaneous improvement in fertility is observed after the intervention.

Is embolization an alternative?

Yes, it can be offered in some cases, but the results on fertility and recurrence rates are generally less favorable than with microsurgery.

How long before an improvement in sperm analysis is seen?

An improvement is often observed after 3 to 6 months, corresponding to a complete cycle of spermatogenesis.

Dr Davy Benarroche's expertise

Chirurgien urologue - Andrologue

Dr Davy Benarroche

Varicocele: there are solutions.