Complications From Varicocele Surgery

[hammock14]

I had bilateral varicoceles that were causing me no issues whatsoever (not even visibly) however my wife and I are having fertility problems so after many years I finally had the procedure to correct the varicoceles.  The procedure went well however I am approaching 6 months later and still have pain when attempting to run or lift weights.  Sometimes just sitting the wrong way can cause pain.  There is pain in the testicles as well the veins leading to my testicles.  I have been to the doctor and he has had me on antibiotics this whole time and at this point I feel I have peaked in my recovery.  I have also had a follow up ultrasound which showed nothing. The doctor said there is nothing more he can do and advised me to see a pain management specialist.  I think there must be other options.  Are there other options?  What could this be?  Thank you!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

This depends on the extent of injury to the nerve. You can take some vitamin B 12 or gabapentin after consulting your doctor and check if the symptoms improve. If the symptoms persist then you may need to get a nerve conduction velocity test done from your urologist.


It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[hammock14]

Dr. Kaur, Thank you for your advice.  My surgeon has evaluated me and said he could no longer help me.  I had an ultrasound and MRI on my pelvic region and both showed nothing according to the surgeon.  I have another appointment scheduled with a different urologist so I am hoping for answers elsewhere.  Is it possible to recover from nerve injuries? Thank you for your help.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
The most common complications from varicocelectomy are hydrocele, varicocele recurrence, and testicular artery injury. Such kind of pain can be due to injury to the nerves because of the surgery. Get this possibility evaluated from your operating surgeon.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.