Varicoceles

Varicoceles

The spermatic cord is the structure that provides the blood supply to the testicle and contains the vas deferens, which transports sperm from the testicle to the penis and urethra. The spermatic cord passes through the inguinal canal and continues into the scrotum. The pampiniform plexus is a group of interconnected veins, which drain the blood from the testicles and lie within the spermatic cord. The pampiniform plexus is believed to have an important functional role in maintaining testicular temperature in the appropriate range for sperm production. The pampiniform plexus cools blood in the testicular artery before it enters the testicles, helping to maintain an ideal testicular temperature essential for optimal sperm production.

Varicoceles are abnormal enlargements (dilations) of the pampiniform plexus of veins within the scrotum. They are similar to varicose veins of the leg, and often form during puberty. They can become larger and thus more noticeable with time. Left-sided varicoceles are more common than right-sided varicoceles, likely due to anatomical differences between the two sides.

Please contact us to schedule an appointment.

To learn more about this condition we recommend you visit the following website: