Vasectomy

A vasectomy, also known as male sterilisation, is performed as a form of contraception. During the procedure, your doctor will make a small incision in the scrotum, and cut and seal the vas deferens. This procedure prevents sperm from leaving the testes. Once the vas deferens has been sealed, the incision is stitched closed. Recovery from this type of procedure is generally very quick, often requiring only one day of rest.

Repair of varicocele

Varicocele refers to swollen and enlarged veins in the scrotum, presenting above one of the testicles. Although varicocele are often symptom-free, they can, in some cases, cause pain and discomfort and can have a negative impact on fertility. If your doctor recommends surgery, he will start by making a small incision in the scrotum or groin and carefully remove the veins that supply blood to the spermatic cord. Full recovery and the ability to return to normal activities may take up to a week.

Excision of cyst / tumour ± orchiectomy (removal of testis)

If you have been diagnosed with an epididymal cyst, your doctor may recommend that it is surgically removed by means of a relatively straightforward procedure. In cases of a cancerous tumour, however, a procedure known as orchiectomy may be necessary. The purpose of the procedure is to remove one or both of the testicles to prevent the cancer from spreading to other parts of the body. During a simple orchiectomy, your doctor will remove the testicle through the scrotum, while a radical orchiectomy involves the removal of the testicle and some of the spermatic cord through a small incision in the groin.

Vasogram

A vasogram is performed in cases of male infertility, and is often recommended as a useful procedure in determining the cause of infertility. During the procedure, your doctor will make a small incision in the vas deferens, before injecting a special contrasting dye which can be viewed with the use of an x-ray. The x-ray allows your doctor to view any obstructions, which may be contributing to fertility issues. In some cases, your doctor may also recommend a testicular biopsy, in which case a tissue sample will be sent to a laboratory for further testing.

Repair of inguinal hernia

An inguinal hernia occurs when part of the intestine or fatty tissue pushes through the lower abdominal wall. This type of hernia often occurs as a result of a weakened abdominal wall, and strenuous activity. An inguinal hernia can be repaired surgically, in which case your doctor will make an incision at the site of the hernia, and carefully push the intestine or tissue back into its correct position. The abdominal wall will be strengthened with the use of stitches or special surgical mesh. Recovery after surgery may take some time, and it may take up to a month before you are able to return to strenuous activity and heavy lifting.