Magnified subinguinal varicocelectomy versus conservative methods in treatment of adolescent varicocele

Abstract

Background Elimination of varicocele in adolescent with lower complication rates is the best treatment modality. Therefore, the ideal technique should aim to ligate all internal and external spermatic veins with preservation of spermatic arteries and lymphatics. Aim We compared the outcome of magnified subinguinal varicocelectomy versus conservative methods in the treatment of adolescent varicocele. Patients and methods A total of 40 adolescent males (aged between 15 and 19 years) with refluxing varicocele and affected semen parameters and testicular volume were included. Overall, 20 patients were treated by magnified subinguinal varicocelectomy and 20 patients treated by conservative methods. All patients were reevaluated and followed for 6 months by several semen parameters and changes in testicular size by Doppler ultrasound. Results A significant improvement was seen in postmagnified subinguinal varicocelectomy group regarding sperm volume, sperm motility, sperm count, progressive movement, vitality, abnormal morphology, testicular volume, and varicocele grade, but in conservative method group, patients showed significant improvement regarding percent of rapid sperm, progressive movement and vitality, and a slight increase in testicular volume. After 6 months, there was a significant difference between both groups regarding sperm volume, progressive movement, vitality, testicular volume, and varicocele grade, so magnified subinguinal varicocelectomy is superior to conservative methods in the management of adolescents with symptomatic varicocele.