Varicocele
The testicle resides within the scrotum. It is attached to a structure called the spermatic cord, which leaves the scrotum and goes up into the abdomen. The spermatic cord contains arteries, which take fresh blood to the testicle, and veins, which sends old blood back to the body. To prevent backflow, the veins contain valves that prevent blood from going back towards the testicle. If these valves do not work properly, then blood will pool in the veins, causing them to become dilated. The dilated veins leaving the testicle are called a varicocele.
Varicocele’s are most often mild and do not cause any issues. Occasionally, a varicocele can cause either pain or issues with sperm production and fertility. In these cases, your urologist may recommend a varicocelectomy or embolization of the varicocele.