Can Varicocele Surgery Be Performed Under Local Anesthesia?

Can varicocele surgery be performed under local anesthesia?

Hello Doctor, I have a complicated hernia and I plan to have surgery for the hernia along with treatment for varicocele in the future.
However, hernia surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia (I previously had surgery on the right side, and this time it will be on the left side along with the varicocele).
I found that most information online in Taiwan suggests using spinal anesthesia.
Could you please advise if this surgery can be performed under local anesthesia? What are the disadvantages? (I would like to be discharged on the same day.) Also, will I be able to ride a long-distance bicycle two months after the surgery? Will masturbation after the surgery be painful or have any adverse effects?

Anbao, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/03/07

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, regarding the surgical incision site for varicocele surgery, if a low or mid-inguinal approach is used, it is more likely that local anesthesia will be employed.
In contrast, if a high ligation is performed, local anesthesia may be more challenging due to the deeper location.
As for the recovery process, it depends on the individual's constitution.
Generally, after more than six weeks, one should be able to return to normal activities.
There should be no specific restrictions on masturbation.
Note: If hospitalization is not desired, it is advisable to consider general intravenous anesthesia or mask anesthesia (the choice of anesthesia can be discussed with an anesthesiologist).
I hope this information is helpful.
If you have further questions, feel free to ask for more discussion and research.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is important to seek medical care at a healthcare facility.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare Taitung Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/03/07

More Info

Varicocele surgery, which is often performed to treat enlarged veins in the scrotum, can indeed be performed under local anesthesia in certain cases. However, the choice of anesthesia largely depends on the specific circumstances of the patient and the complexity of the procedure.
In general, varicocele repair can be done using various techniques, including open surgery, laparoscopic surgery, or percutaneous approaches. The most common methods include the open inguinal approach and the laparoscopic approach. While local anesthesia may be suitable for some patients, many surgeons prefer to use regional anesthesia (such as spinal or epidural anesthesia) or general anesthesia for a few reasons.

1. Patient Comfort: Varicocele surgery can involve manipulation of the spermatic cord and surrounding tissues, which may cause discomfort. Local anesthesia may not provide sufficient pain relief during the procedure, leading to a less comfortable experience for the patient.

2. Surgical Precision: Using regional or general anesthesia allows the surgeon to perform the procedure with the patient completely relaxed and pain-free, which can enhance surgical precision and reduce the risk of complications.

3. Duration of Surgery: If the surgery is expected to be lengthy or complex, general or regional anesthesia may be more appropriate. Local anesthesia is typically better suited for shorter, less invasive procedures.

4. Postoperative Recovery: While local anesthesia may allow for quicker recovery and discharge, it is essential to consider the potential for postoperative pain. Patients may experience discomfort after the procedure, which could affect their ability to manage pain effectively at home.

Regarding your specific situation with the combination of hernia repair and varicocele surgery, it is crucial to discuss your preferences and concerns with your surgeon and anesthesiologist. They will evaluate your medical history, the complexity of the surgeries, and your comfort level to determine the best anesthesia approach for you.

As for your questions about postoperative activities, such as riding a bicycle and engaging in sexual activities, these will depend on your individual recovery process. Generally, after varicocele surgery, patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities, including cycling, for at least a few weeks to allow for proper healing. Engaging in sexual activities, including masturbation, should also be approached with caution. While many patients can resume sexual activities within a few weeks, it is essential to listen to your body and consult your surgeon for personalized advice based on your recovery progress.

In summary, while varicocele surgery can be performed under local anesthesia, many surgeons prefer regional or general anesthesia for patient comfort and surgical efficacy. It is essential to have a thorough discussion with your healthcare team to determine the best approach for your specific case and to address any concerns regarding postoperative activities.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Varicocele: Impact on Male Fertility and Surgical Options

Hello, doctor. I have the following questions to ask you: 1. Can varicocele lead to azoospermia? 2. Is it necessary to perform a semen analysis before considering surgery for varicocele, or can the surgery be done without a semen analysis? 3. Does varicocele completely prevent ...

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology
1. Varicocele does not cause azoospermia. 2. It is generally recommended to perform a semen analysis before discussing the possibility of surgery. 3. Varicocele may lead to a decrease in the quality and quantity of spermatogenesis in the testes. 4. Varicocele repair surgery...

Understanding Hydrocele: Surgical Options and Anesthesia Concerns

Hello, doctor. I have undergone a detailed examination and was told that I have a blister on my scrotum. I was prescribed medication for two weeks, and I will undergo blood and urine tests. It seems that surgery may ultimately be necessary. Can I ask if this is considered a minor...

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology
Hello Y, if there are cysts in the seminal vesicles, it could be a seminal vesicle cyst. If medication treatment does not alleviate the pain, the likelihood of requiring surgery is quite high. There are various anesthesia methods for the surgery, each with its own advantages and ...

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...

Can Varicocele and Penile Curvature Surgeries Be Combined Under Anesthesia?

Hello, I would like to ask if varicocele surgery and penile curvature surgery can be performed together under general anesthesia. My girlfriend experiences pain when licking my testicles, and I feel the same sensation when checking myself. After researching, it seems to be varico...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: It is not recommended to perform surgeries on different areas at the same time, and most likely, a spinal anesthesia will be required. You can discuss this with your physician. A thorough examination is necessary to determine if there are any other issues. If penile curvat...