Cord block and cord stripping
Cord block and cord stripping are procedures used to treat chronic pain or discomfort related to conditions like varicocele or orchialgia (testicular pain).
Cord Block: A cord block involves injecting a local anesthetic around the spermatic cord, which carries nerves to the testicle. This procedure temporarily numbs the area and can help diagnose or relieve pain, particularly in cases of chronic testicular discomfort.
Cord Stripping: This surgical procedure involves removing or stripping the veins in the spermatic cord to treat varicoceles, which can cause pain or infertility. The procedure can help reduce the size of the varicocele and improve blood flow to the affected area.
Both procedures aim to alleviate pain and improve quality of life for patients with testicular conditions.
Treatment
Chronic testicular pain, also known as orchialgia, can significantly impact a man's quality of life. When conservative treatments such as pain relievers, antibiotics, or physical therapy are ineffective, interventional procedures like spermatic cord blocks and microsurgical denervation of the spermatic cord (cord stripping) may be considered.
Spermatic Cord Block:
A spermatic cord block involves injecting a local anesthetic into the spermatic cord to temporarily alleviate testicular pain. This procedure serves both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes:
Diagnostic Use: If the block successfully relieves pain, it indicates that the spermatic cord is the likely source of discomfort.
Therapeutic Use: While primarily temporary, repeated blocks can provide ongoing pain relief for some patients.
Traditionally, this procedure is performed by palpating anatomical landmarks to locate the spermatic cord. However, ultrasound guidance has been introduced to enhance accuracy and success rates.