Varicocele Surgery: Questions on Anesthesia, Recovery, and Dental Care

Surgical Consultation

Dear Dr.
Hsu,
I am scheduled to undergo laparoscopic surgery for varicocele, requiring general anesthesia, as I have been diagnosed with moderate varicocele on the left side.
However, I am confused because my attending physician mentioned that the right side's vein will also be ligated, even though there is no varicocele present on that side.
Could it be possible that I might experience discomfort after the ligation on the right side, which was previously asymptomatic? The rationale provided was that performing the ligation on both sides at once would reduce the risk of recurrence and the need for another surgery in the future.
Is it common practice to recommend simultaneous treatment of both sides during laparoscopic surgery, regardless of the presence of varicocele?
Additionally, I would like to know how long it typically takes for scrotal discomfort and lower back pain to subside after the surgery.
Will the recovery period in the first few weeks be more painful than before the surgery?
I also have another question: after this surgery, if I am hospitalized for one day and discharged the next day, can I go to the dentist for a dental procedure? I have a cavity that requires anesthesia and possibly a root canal.
I understand that it is not advisable to see a dentist when having a cold, but could there be a risk of postoperative infection after my surgery? Should I inform the dentist that I just had surgery? Although it seems like it might not be a significant issue, I would like to ask for peace of mind.
Thank you for your assistance!

A-Jia, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/01/24

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, A-Jia.
You need to inform the dentist about the surgery.
Regarding varicocele surgery, I personally believe that if everything is normal, surgery may not be necessary.
After the surgery, any back pain or discomfort will depend on the individual's constitution and the surgical method used.
Some people recover completely within a week, while others may take more than six months to feel relief.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
Answers found online should only be used as a reference; it is still essential to seek medical care at a healthcare facility when necessary.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Chief of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2013/01/24

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for your questions regarding your upcoming varicocele surgery and your concerns about dental care afterward. I understand that you have several inquiries, and I will address them comprehensively.

Varicocele Surgery and Anesthesia
Varicocele surgery, particularly laparoscopic surgery, is typically performed under general anesthesia. This means you will be completely unconscious during the procedure, which is standard for surgeries involving the abdomen. Your concern about the ligation of the right vein, which is not varicose, is valid. Your surgeon's rationale for ligating both sides is likely based on the principle of preventing future complications. While it is true that ligating a vein that is not varicose may lead to some discomfort post-operatively, the risk of recurrence on the left side is a significant consideration. Surgeons often prefer to address both sides in a single procedure to minimize the need for future surgeries, which can be more complicated.

Recovery and Post-Operative Pain
Regarding your recovery, it is common to experience some degree of discomfort in the scrotum and lower back after the surgery. This discomfort can vary from person to person, but many patients report that it begins to improve within a few days to a week post-surgery. However, it is not unusual for some patients to experience increased pain in the initial days following the procedure, especially as the anesthesia wears off and inflammation sets in. Your surgeon will likely provide you with pain management options, including medications to help alleviate any discomfort.

Dental Care After Surgery
As for your dental concerns, it is generally advisable to wait a few days after any surgical procedure before undergoing another invasive treatment, such as a root canal. This is primarily to allow your body to begin the healing process and to reduce the risk of infection. However, if your dental issue is urgent, such as severe pain from a cavity, it may be possible to proceed with dental treatment sooner.

When you visit your dentist, it is crucial to inform them about your recent surgery. While the risk of infection from dental work following a laparoscopic procedure is relatively low, your dentist should be aware of your surgical history to take appropriate precautions. They may choose to prescribe antibiotics as a preventive measure, especially if the dental procedure involves manipulating tissues that could potentially introduce bacteria into your bloodstream.

Conclusion
In summary, while your surgeon's recommendation to ligate both veins is aimed at preventing future complications, it is essential to communicate any concerns you have with them directly. Post-operative discomfort is common, but it should gradually improve. Regarding dental care, it is best to discuss your situation with your dentist and inform them of your recent surgery to ensure a safe and effective treatment plan.

If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out. Wishing you a smooth surgery and a speedy recovery!
Best regards.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Varicocele Surgery: Pain, Risks, and Recovery Insights

Hello Doctor, I recently suspect that I have a varicocele, but I actually experienced testicular swelling and pain last winter, which happened only two or three times, so I didn't think much of it. Today, after being intimate with my girlfriend, the pain suddenly returned, a...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
It's normal to feel nervous: surgery will certainly involve some pain, which is why anesthesia is necessary. There are many types of anesthesia, and the choice depends on the patient's condition. Surgery inherently carries risks. It is essential to have a thorough discu...

Understanding Varicocele: Concerns About Surgery and Anesthesia Risks

Recently, during a school physical examination, the doctor mentioned that I might have a varicocele issue with my testicles. He suggested surgery, which makes me a bit scared since I just had a circumcision two months ago. However, I heard that mild cases can be treated with medi...

Dr. Lin Wenxu reply Urology
1. Varicocele cannot be improved through medication. Surgical intervention should be considered only if it causes frequent testicular pain or affects fertility. If there are no such issues or persistent pain, increasing physical activity and avoiding prolonged sitting or standing...

Understanding Varicocele Surgery: Common Questions and Concerns

Hello, Doctor: 1. If I need surgery for varicocele, will I need to be hospitalized? (Is it possible to avoid hospitalization? Will the anesthesia hurt? I'm afraid of pain.) 2. Is the surgery performed using laser? 3. Will the incision be large? 4. Will stitches be required...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Varicocele is generally considered a selective surgery, not something that must be addressed, and there is a possibility of recurrence. 1) It is not necessarily the same across different hospitals. 2) It should not be (please consult your physician). 3) If it is around 3-5...

Managing Discomfort from Varicocele: Medication vs. Surgery Options

I would like to ask the doctor, can medication treatment improve the discomfort caused by varicocele, or is surgery the only option for persistent discomfort? I have found information about minimally invasive surgery; how long does it typically take to recover from this type of s...

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology
How effective is oral medication? You won't know until you have tested it yourself. In principle, you can be discharged one or two days after surgery. For detailed information, it's best to discuss it directly with the attending surgeon at the time.