Correlation between the Ultrasonographic and the Operative Findings in Varicocele Patients

Abstract

A varicocele is an abnormal dilatation of the pampiniform plexus of veins within the spermatic cord. It affects 15-20% of males and is an important cause of infertility; it accounts for 30-50% of primary infertility and in up to 81% of secondary infertility. Two types are distinguished on the basis of aetiopathogenesis: primary and secondary. Primary varicoceles are due to venous reflux into the pampiniform plexus from the internal spermatic vein as a result of absent or incompetent venous valves. They are also called as idiopathic varicocele and usually occur on the left side. Secondary varicoceles are the result of increased pressure in the testicular vein, obstructed venous drainage, and alteration in the pump mechanism at the level of the muscle due to several conditions. Currently, diagnostic assessment of varicocele depends on physical examination and scrotal ultrasound/Doppler. Treatment of varicocele is mainly surgical; the operation is known as varicocelectomy. The aim of our study is to compare the ultrasonographic findings with the operative findings in patients with varicocele. The study included (30) patients with primary (idiopathic) varicocele attending the Andrology Outpatient Clinic at Ain Shams University Hospitals who will undergo a subinguinal surgical repair of the varicoceles. Some of our patients presented with scrotal discomfort or pain and most of them visited the clinic seeking treatment for their infertility.