If you are experiencing scrotal pain, microscopic cord denervation can help.
The vessels, ducts, and nerves that are connected to the testes are known as the spermatic cord. Pain that is experienced in one or both testicles is often related to this area and can include trauma, infection, and neurologic diseases.
For consistent pain, surgery may be needed. For a minimally invasive option, microscopic cord denervation may be recommended to relieve scrotal pain.
Diagnosing Issues
A scrotal ultrasound may be performed in order to confirm that the issue is originating from the spermatic cord. The ultrasound can rule out other possible causes of pain. Another approach for diagnosing scrotal pain is a local anesthetic block. By temporarily blocking nerve signals in the area and monitoring whether or not the patient experiences a reduction in pain, the doctor can confirm that the spermatic cord is the source of the issue.
Candidates
Men who have had a previous surgery in the same area seem to be more likely to experience scrotal pain. Patients with a history of epididymitis or orchitis, or a previous vasectomy, are at increased risk of needing the procedure.
This procedure typically is only recommended when symptoms do not subside after other conservative methods are attempted. In patients who have had microscopic cord denervation, more than 90% report experiencing reduction or elimination of pain.
How it Works
The procedure is performed with a small incision. If the patient already has an incision, such as the type made to repair a hernia, the doctor will attempt to make the new incision in the same place. A surgical microscope is used to slowly dissect the spermatic cord while leaving the testicular artery intact. Also left intact are the lymphatic vessels (as many as possible) and the vas deferens, if the patient wishes to preserve fertility.
After the cord is “stripped down” to its essential parts, the wound is closed up and the surgery is considered complete. The surgery takes about one to two hours.
Recovery from Microscopic Cord Denervation
The patient will need to be careful when showering or bathing until the surgical area is healed. Since the procedure involves cutting nerves, the testicle that is affected may remain numb. Reduced sensation in part of the scrotum is also possible.