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Warli SM, Nabil RA, Kadar DD, Prapiska FF, Siregar GP. A comparison between the efficacy and complication of laparoscopic and microsurgical varicocelectomy: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Urol Ann 2024; 16:113-119. [PMID: 38818427 PMCID: PMC11135350 DOI: 10.4103/ua.ua_3_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Varicocele is the dilatation of the scrotal veins and may affect sperm count and infertility. It is caused by congenital vein insufficiency or absence of venous valve. The main treatment is by surgery, and currently, there are two minimally invasive choices: laparoscopic and microsurgical varicocelectomy. This systematic review aimed to record randomized clinical trials from various sources using all qualified studies up to June 2022. The assessed outcomes were operation time, hydrocele, hospital stay, change in semen parameter, recurrence rate, and pregnancy rate. The essential data extracted were Jadad score, publication year, age, and sample size. This systematic review consisted of 509 and 512 patients in the laparoscopic and microsurgery group, respectively, taken from 12 out of 281 studies. The result of this systematic review was significant difference in operation time between patients from two groups (weighted mean difference [WMD] -21.40, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -28.90--13.89); length of hospitalization (WMD: 0.38, 95% CI: 0.02-0.74); laparoscopic could significantly increase the risk of hydrocele by 3.30-fold (risk ratio [RR]: 3.30, 95% CI: 1.07-10.12); laparoscopic could significantly increase the recurrence rate by 6.98-fold (RR: 6.98, 95% CI: 3.46-14.08); no significant difference in spontaneous pregnancy between patients in both groups (RR: 0.81, 95% CI: 0.57-1.16); and laparoscopic surgery decreased the occurrence of sperm parameter changes by 40% (RR = 0.40, 95% CI: 0.25-0.62).
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Affiliation(s)
- Syah Mirsya Warli
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara – Haji Adam Malik General Hospital, Medan, Indonesia
- Department of Urology, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Universitas Sumatera Utara Hospital, Medan, Indonesia
| | - Rizky An Nabil
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia – Haji Adam Malik General Hospital, Medan, Indonesia
| | - Dhirajaya Dharma Kadar
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara – Haji Adam Malik General Hospital, Medan, Indonesia
| | - Fauriski Febrian Prapiska
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara – Haji Adam Malik General Hospital, Medan, Indonesia
| | - Ginanda Putra Siregar
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sumatera Utara – Haji Adam Malik General Hospital, Medan, Indonesia
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Lai CZ, Chen SJ, Huang CP, Chen HY, Tsai MY, Liu PL, Chen YH, Chen WC. Scrotal Pain after Varicocelectomy: A Narrative Review. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11041070. [PMID: 37189688 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Varicocele is a frequently encountered urological disorder, which has a prevalence rate of 8 to 15% among healthy men. However, the incidence is higher in male patients with primary or secondary infertility, with up to 35 to 80% of varicocele cases occurring in this population. The clinical manifestations of varicocele typically include the presence of an asymptomatic mass that feels like a “bag of worms”, chronic scrotal pain, and infertility. Most patients with varicocele only undergo varicocelectomy after conservative treatments have failed. Unfortunately, some patients may still experience persistent scrotal pain due to a recurrence of varicocele, the development of hydrocele, neuralgia, referred pain, ureteral lesions, or nutcracker syndrome. Therefore, clinicians should consider these conditions as potential causes of postoperative scrotal pain, and take measures to address them. Several factors can assist in predicting surgical outcomes for patients with varicocele. Clinicians should consider these factors when deciding whether to perform surgery and what type of surgical intervention to use. By doing so, they can increase the likelihood of a successful surgical outcome and minimize the risk of complications such as postoperative scrotal pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Zhi Lai
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 404333, Taiwan
| | - Szu-Ju Chen
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung 407219, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Ping Huang
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 404333, Taiwan
- Department of Urology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404327, Taiwan
| | - Huey-Yi Chen
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 404333, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404327, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Yen Tsai
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833401, Taiwan
- Kaohsiung Municipal Feng Shan Hospital (Under the Management of Chang Gung Medical Foundation), Kaohsiung 830025, Taiwan
| | - Po-Len Liu
- Department of Respiratory Therapy, College of Medicine, Regenerative Medicine and Cell Therapy Research Center, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807378, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Hsiang Chen
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 404333, Taiwan
- Department of Psychology, College of Medical and Health Science, Asia University, Taichung 413305, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404327, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chi Chen
- Department of Urology, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 404327, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Integrated Medicine, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 404333, Taiwan
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Fallara G, Tang S, Pang KH, Pozzi E, Belladelli F, Schifano N, Capogrosso P, Alnajjar HM, Montorsi F, Salonia A, Castiglione F, Muneer A. Treatment of Persistent or Recurrent Varicoceles: A Systematic Review. Eur Urol Focus 2022:S2405-4569(22)00250-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.euf.2022.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Zhang S, Li H, Du J, Xv L, Li F, Jiang L. Is it important to measure the internal spermatic vein diameter after varicocelectomy? A self‐controlled trial. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14484. [PMID: 35624551 DOI: 10.1111/and.14484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shijun Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine Shanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai China
| | - Hongli Li
- Department of Ultrasound, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine Shanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai China
| | - Jing Du
- Department of Ultrasound, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine Shanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai China
| | - Li Xv
- Department of Ultrasound, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine Shanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai China
| | - Fenghua Li
- Department of Ultrasound, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine Shanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai China
| | - Lixin Jiang
- Department of Ultrasound, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine Shanghai Jiao Tong University Shanghai China
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Napolitano L, Pandolfo SD, Aveta A, Cirigliano L, Martino R, Mattiello G, Celentano G, Barone B, Rosati C, La Rocca R, Spena G, Spirito L. The Management of Clinical Varicocele: Robotic Surgery Approach. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 4:791330. [PMID: 36303643 PMCID: PMC9580646 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2022.791330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicocele is a pathologic dilation of the testicular veins within the spermatic cord. Varicocele is considered the most common problem in reproductive medicine practice. It is identified in 15% of healthy men and up to 35% of men with primary infertility. The exact pathophysiology of varicoceles is not very well understood, and several theories have been proposed to explain it. Varicocele can impair sperm quality and fertility via various mechanisms: reflux of adrenal metabolites, increased testicular hypoxia, oxidative stress, and increased testicular temperature have been proposed. Several studies have reported the significant benefits on semen parameters with the surgical treatment of varicocele: reducing oxidatively induced sperm DNA damage and potentially improving fertility. Varicocele repair should be offered as a part of treatment option for male partners of infertile couples presenting with palpable varicoceles. Nowadays, there are several surgical approaches available for the treatment of varicocele, such as the retroperitoneal approach, inguinal approach, and the subinguinal approach. The subinguinal microscopic approach offers the best outcomes, such as shorter hospital stays, preservation of the testicular arteries and lymphatics, least number of postoperative complications, recurrence, and a higher number of pregnancies. Currently robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery is widely adopted in urology and surgeons began to explore the potential applications of the robotic platform to male infertility microsurgical operations. Robotic approach offers many advantages: elimination of tremor, retraction with third arm, high quality, 3-dimensional visualization and surgeon ergonomics, all contributing to the precision of surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Napolitano
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Savio Domenico Pandolfo
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Achille Aveta
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Cirigliano
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaele Martino
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Gennaro Mattiello
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Celentano
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Biagio Barone
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudia Rosati
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto La Rocca
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Gianluca Spena
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Spirito
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- *Correspondence: Lorenzo Spirito
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Is There a Link Between Saphenofemoral Insufficiency and Varicocele: Imaging Study of Sub-Fertile Men. Nephrourol Mon 2020. [DOI: 10.5812/numonthly.99178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Çayan S, Orhan İ, Akbay E, Kadıoğlu A. Systematic review of treatment methods for recurrent varicoceles to compare post‐treatment sperm parameters, pregnancy and complication rates. Andrologia 2019; 51:e13419. [DOI: 10.1111/and.13419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Revised: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Selahittin Çayan
- Department of Urology University of Mersin School of Medicine Mersin Turkey
| | - İrfan Orhan
- Department of Urology Fırat University School of Medicine Elazığ Turkey
| | - Erdem Akbay
- Department of Urology University of Mersin School of Medicine Mersin Turkey
| | - Ateş Kadıoğlu
- Department of Urology Istanbul Faculty of Medicine Istanbul University Istanbul Turkey
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Akkoç A, Aydın C, Topaktaş R, Altın S, Uçar M, Topçuoğlu M, Buğra Şentürk A. Retroperitoneal high ligation versus subinguinal varicocelectomy: Effectiveness of two different varicocelectomy techniques on the treatment of painful varicocele. Andrologia 2019; 51:e13293. [DOI: 10.1111/and.13293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Akkoç
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University Antalya Turkey
| | - Cemil Aydın
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine Hitit University Çorum Turkey
| | - Ramazan Topaktaş
- Department of Urology University of Health Sciences, Haydarpasa Numune Research & Training Hospital İstanbul Turkey
| | - Selçuk Altın
- Department of Urology Necip Fazıl City Hospital Kahramanmaraş Turkey
| | - Murat Uçar
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University Antalya Turkey
| | - Murat Topçuoğlu
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University Antalya Turkey
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Allameh F, Hasanzadeh Haddad A, Abedi A, Ranjbar A, Qashqai H, Fadavi B, Yousefi M. Varicocelectomy with primary gubernaculum veins closure: A randomised clinical trial. Andrologia 2018; 50:e12991. [PMID: 29460294 DOI: 10.1111/and.12991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
To evaluate the effect of microsurgical inguinal varicocelectomy with testicular delivery on semen parameters. A total of 416 patients, diagnosed with grade III varicocele, were randomised into two groups. One group underwent microsurgical inguinal varicocelectomy without testicular delivery. For the other group, testicular delivery and ligation of gubernacular and all collateral veins were performed. A semen analysis was performed before and 6 months after the procedure. Mean age of the patients in the case and control groups was 27.3 ± 6.1 years and 25.9 ± 4.6 years respectively (p = .1). The total number of recurrence after 6 months in the conventional and testicular delivery groups was 13 (6.5%) and 3 (1.5%) (p < .05). No case of hydrocele formation was observed in any of the groups. All sperm parameters were improved 6 months after the surgery in both groups. But comparing the mean improved difference between the two groups revealed a significant difference in improvement in sperm motility for patients who had undergone varicocelectomy with testicular delivery (p = .05). Microsurgical inguinal varicocelectomy is a safe and efficient technique with a minimum chance of post-operative complications and recurrence and also may have role in improvement of sperm motility compared with conventional techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Allameh
- Clinical Research Development Unit, Shohada-e-Tajrish Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - A Hasanzadeh Haddad
- Urology Department, Shohada-e-Tajrish Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - A Abedi
- Urology Department, Shohada-e-Tajrish Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - A Ranjbar
- Urology Department, Shohada-e-Tajrish Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - H Qashqai
- Urology Department, Shohada-e-Tajrish Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - B Fadavi
- Urology Department, Shohada-e-Tajrish Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Yousefi
- Urology Department, Shohada-e-Tajrish Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Dagur G, Gandhi J, Suh Y, Weissbart S, Sheynkin YR, Smith NL, Joshi G, Khan SA. Classifying Hydroceles of the Pelvis and Groin: An Overview of Etiology, Secondary Complications, Evaluation, and Management. Curr Urol 2017; 10:1-14. [PMID: 28559772 DOI: 10.1159/000447145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2016] [Accepted: 05/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A hydrocele is defined as the pathological buildup of serous fluid in the pelvis and groin due to various etiologies such as diseases or trauma. It has distinct clinical manifestations, particularly discomfort and psychosocial distress. Understanding the anatomy, embryology, and physiology associated with hydrocele formation is crucial to understand its onset and progression. MATERIALS AND METHODS A MEDLINE® search was conducted using keywords for the relevant classification of hydrocele and its etiology, complications, sexual barriers, evaluation, and management. RESULTS Appropriately classifying the hydrocele as primary, secondary communicating, secondary noncommunicating, microbe-induced, inflammatory, iatrogenic, trauma-induced, tumor-induced, canal of Nuck, congenital, and giant is important for identifying the underlying etiology. Often this process is overlooked when the classification or etiology is too rare. A focused evaluation is important for this, so that timely management can be provided. We comprehensively review the classifications, etiology, and secondary complications of hydrocele. Pitfalls of current diagnostic techniques are explored along with recommended methods for accurate diagnosis and current treatment options. CONCLUSION Due to the range of classifications and etiologies of hydrocele in the pelvis and groin, a deliberate differential diagnosis is essential to avoiding imminent life-threatening complications as well as providing the appropriate treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gautam Dagur
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, N.Y., USA
| | - Jason Gandhi
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, N.Y., USA
| | - Yiji Suh
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, N.Y., USA
| | - Steven Weissbart
- Department of Urology, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, N.Y., USA.,Women's Pelvic Health & Continence Center, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, N.Y., USA
| | - Yefim R Sheynkin
- Department of Urology, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, N.Y., USA
| | | | - Gargi Joshi
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, N.Y., USA
| | - Sardar Ali Khan
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, N.Y., USA.,Department of Urology, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, N.Y., USA
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Yan TZ, Wu XQ, Wang ZW. Treatment effect of TUSPLV on recurrent varicocele. Exp Ther Med 2016; 13:45-48. [PMID: 28123466 PMCID: PMC5245058 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2016.3931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Accepted: 09/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to analyze the treatment effect of transumbilical single-port laparoscopic varicocelectomy (TUSPLV) on recurrent varicocele (VC). In order to compare the surgical effects of TUSPLV to traditional retroperitoneal ligation of the internal spermatic vein, 64 patients with recurrent VC were enrolled and divided into the control group (n=30) and the observation group (n=34). Patients in the control group underwent surgery using traditional retroperitoneal ligation of the internal spermatic vein, while those in the observation group underwent surgery using TUSPLV. The results showed that the time of operation and bleeding volume in the observation group were significantly lower. The occurrence and recurrence rates of periprocedural complications were considerably lower in the observation group. Differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). In terms of the pregnancy rate, the difference between the 2 groups had no statistical significance (P>0.05). We concluded that employing TUSPLV to treat recurrent VC was safe and effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian-Zhong Yan
- Department of Urology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Qiang Wu
- Department of Urology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, P.R. China
| | - Zhi-Wei Wang
- Department of Urology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, P.R. China
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Comparison of Treatment Outcomes of Different Spermatic Vein Ligation Procedures in Varicocele Treatment. Am J Ther 2016; 23:e1329-e1334. [DOI: 10.1097/mjt.0000000000000232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Abstract
Varicocele recurrence is one of the most common complications associated with varicocele repair. A systematic review was performed to evaluate varicocele recurrence rates, anatomic causes of recurrence, and methods of management of recurrent varicoceles. The PubMed database was evaluated using keywords “recurrent” and “varicocele” as well as MESH criteria “recurrent” and “varicocele.” Articles were not included that were not in English, represented single case reports, focused solely on subclinical varicocele, or focused solely on a pediatric population (age <18). Rates of recurrence vary with the technique of varicocele repair from 0% to 35%. Anatomy of recurrence can be defined by venography. Management of varicocele recurrence can be surgical or via embolization.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark Sigman
- Department of Surgery, division of Urology, Brown University, 2 Dudley Street, Suite #174, Providence, RI 02905, USA
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Kovac JR, Fantus J, Lipshultz LI, Fischer MA, Klinghoffer Z. Cost-effectiveness analysis reveals microsurgical varicocele repair is superior to percutaneous embolization in the treatment of male infertility. Can Urol Assoc J 2014; 8:E619-25. [PMID: 25295133 DOI: 10.5489/cuaj.1873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Varicoceles are a common cause of male infertility; repair can be accomplished using either surgical or radiological means. We compare the cost-effectiveness of the gold standard, the microsurgical varicocele repair (MV), to the options of a nonmicrosurgical approach (NMV) and percutaneous embolization (PE) to manage varicocele-associated infertility. METHODS A Markov decision-analysis model was developed to estimate costs and pregnancy rates. Within the model, recurrences following MV and NMV were re-treated with PE and recurrences following PE were treated with repeat PE, MV or NMV. Pregnancy and recurrence rates were based on the literature, while costs were obtained from institutional and government supplied data. Univariate and probabilistic sensitivity-analyses were performed to determine the effects of the various parameters on model outcomes. RESULTS Primary treatment with MV was the most cost-effective strategy at $5402 CAD (Canadian)/pregnancy. Primary treatment with NMV was the least costly approach, but it also yielded the fewest pregnancies. Primary treatment with PE was the least cost-effective strategy costing about $7300 CAD/pregnancy. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis reinforced MV as the most cost-effective strategy at a willingness-to-pay threshold of >$4100 CAD/pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS MV yielded the most pregnancies at acceptable levels of incremental costs. As such, it is the preferred primary treatment strategy for varicocele-associated infertility. Treatment with PE was the least cost-effective approach and, as such, is best used only in cases of surgical failure.
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Cho SJ, Kim SC, Kim KS, Park S. Magnification-assisted subinguinal varicocelectomy with testicular delivery in children: a preliminary report. World J Mens Health 2014; 32:93-8. [PMID: 25237659 PMCID: PMC4166376 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.2014.32.2.93] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2014] [Revised: 05/06/2014] [Accepted: 05/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the effectiveness of magnification-assisted subinguinal varicocelectomy (MASV) with testicular delivery in children with severe varicocele. MATERIALS AND METHODS We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 23 children 15 years or younger (mean age, 12.3±1.8 years) who underwent MASV with testicular delivery and ligation of all collateral veins except arteries and deferential veins between January 2010 and January 2014. All patients had grade 3 varicocele on the left side. Varicocelectomy was decided upon due to scrotal hypotrophy (n=14, 60.9%), the existence of mass (n=6, 26.1%, including 1 recurrent case), and discomfort (n=3, 13.0%). The preservation of internal spermatic artery (ISA) was successful in 8 patients (34.8%). The mean follow-up time was 10.8±6.6 months. RESULTS The surgical success rate of varicocelectomy was 100%. The overall symptom resolution rate was 91.3%. The scrotal mass and discomfort disappeared, but testicular catch-up growth did not occur in 2 among 14 patients with scrotal hypotrophy. The left testis volume increased from 6.5±4.3 mL to 10.6±7.5 mL (p=0.003). There were no significant inter-group differences in terms of the surgical success rate, symptom resolution, and catch-up growth between the ISA preservation group and the ligation group. None of the subjects demonstrated testicular atrophy or hydrocele after surgery. CONCLUSIONS MASV with testicular delivery is an effective and safe method for children with severe varicocele.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suk Ju Cho
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju National University School of Medicine, Jeju, Korea
| | - Seong Cheol Kim
- Department of Urology, Inje University Haeundae Paik Hospital, Inje University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea
| | - Kun Suk Kim
- Department of Urology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sungchan Park
- Department of Urology, Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Ulsan, Korea
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Abstract
This study was conducted to introduce a simple modification that can facilitate microsurgical subinguinal varicocelectomy (MSV) especially for surgeons inexperienced in microsurgical technique. A single surgeon performed microsurgical intermediate subinguinal varicocelectomy (MISV) on 52 patients with 61 cases between September 2010 and August 2012. Patient age, varicocele grade, operation time, intraoperative findings, postoperative complications, and 3-month follow-up results were analyzed. Patient mean age was 28 years (range, 15-69 years), and there were 9 bilateral cases. The mean operative time was 51 minutes (range, 34-109 minutes). We compared the first 31 cases to the second 30 cases, to assess investigator experience on operating times. The mean number of ligated veins was 5 (range, 3-10) in internal spermatic vein, 1 (range, 0-4) in external spermatic vein, and 1 (range, 0-3) in gubernacular vein. In 28 patients, the average postoperative sperm concentration at the 3-month follow-up was significantly higher than the preoperative sperm concentration (28.5±18.2×10(6)/mL versus 10.5±23.0×10(6)/mL; P=0.003). Mean motility improved after MSIV (65.7%±18.2% versus 47.2%±21.7%; P=0.004). In conclusion, MISV appears comparable with MSV in terms of the high success rate, low complication rate, and low postoperative pain; and it can be easily accomplished by inexperienced surgeons.
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Kim KS, Lee C, Song SH, Cho SJ, Park S, Moon KH, Ryu DS, Park S. Impact of internal spermatic artery preservation during laparoscopic varicocelectomy on recurrence and the catch-up growth rate in adolescents. J Pediatr Urol 2014; 10:435-40. [PMID: 24314819 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpurol.2013.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2013] [Accepted: 11/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effectiveness of laparoscopic varicocelectomy (LV) in adolescents with varicocele and analyze the impact of internal spermatic artery (ISA) preservation on surgical outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS Data on 92 adolescents with left varicocele who underwent LV between December 1998 and January 2011 were retrospectively analyzed. The mean age of the patients was 13.2 ± 2.1 years. Age, grade of disease, number of ligation veins, recurrence rates, and catch-up growth were analyzed in patients who underwent ISA preservation and ligation. The median duration of the follow-up was 21 months. RESULTS ISA preservation was performed on 50 patients (54%). There were no significant inter-group differences in terms of age, varicocele grade, number of ligation veins, and catch-up growth (93% vs. 90%). The patients who received artery preservation demonstrated a higher recurrence rate (22%) than those who received artery ligation (5%; p = 0.032). Among 13 patients who had persistent or recurrent varicocele, nine were treated with embolization and one was treated with magnification-assisted subinguinal varicocelectomy. None of these 10 patients demonstrated recurrence or testicular atrophy. CONCLUSIONS LV with ISA ligation can reduce the recurrence rate and results in the same catch-up growth rate in comparison with LV with ISA preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- K S Kim
- Department of Urology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, 388-1 Pungnap2-dong, Songpa-gu, 138-736 Seoul, South Korea
| | - C Lee
- Department of Urology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, 388-1 Pungnap2-dong, Songpa-gu, 138-736 Seoul, South Korea
| | - S H Song
- Department of Urology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, 388-1 Pungnap2-dong, Songpa-gu, 138-736 Seoul, South Korea
| | - S J Cho
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Cheju National University College of Medicine, Cheju National University Hospital, 690-716, #154, 3-Do 2-Dong, Jeju City, South Korea
| | - S Park
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Pusan National University, 30 Jangjeon-dong, Gumjeong-gu, 609-735 Busan, South Korea
| | - K H Moon
- Department of Urology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, 388-1 Pungnap2-dong, Songpa-gu, 138-736 Seoul, South Korea
| | - D S Ryu
- Department of Urology, Samsung Changwon Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 50, Hapsung-dong, Masan hoewon-gu, 630-723 Changwon, South Korea
| | - S Park
- Department of Urology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Ulsan University Hospital, 290-3 Jeonha-dong Dong-gu, 682-714 Ulsan, South Korea.
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Gorur S, Candan Y, Helli A, Akcin S, Cekirge SD, Kaya YS, Cekic C, Kiper AN. Low body mass index might be a predisposing factor for varicocele recurrence: a prospective study. Andrologia 2014; 47:448-54. [PMID: 24811266 DOI: 10.1111/and.12287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated the possible relationship between body mass index (BMI) score and varicocele recurrence in an infertile patient population. A total of 255 primary infertile male patients (138 with varicocele and 117 for control) were included in this study. Height and weight measurements, clinical examination for varicocele, determination of serum hormone levels and spermiogram were performed in all cases. The BMI score was calculated, and patients with varicocele were operated with subinguinal technique and re-examined for recurrences. The varicocele group had significantly lower weight and the BMI score than the control group (P < 0.001). Varicocele recurrences were found in 22 patients (16% of them) after the operations. The BMI score was significantly lower in the recurrent group than in the nonrecurrent and control groups (P < 0.001). 73% of the recurrent, 50% of the nonrecurrent and 25% of the control group patients' BMI scores were under 25 kg m(-2) (P < 0.001). In logistic regression analysis, the BMI score was found as a determinant for varicocele recurrence (P = 0.027; OR: 1.25). It is concluded that BMI score lower than 25 kg m(-2) significantly increases the recurrence rate after varicocele operation, and it can be used as an objective indicator for microsurgical varicocelectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Gorur
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Mustafa Kemal University, Antakya-Hatay, Turkey
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Tolerance of glue embolization under local anesthesia in varicoceles: a comparative study of two different cyanoacrylates. Eur J Radiol 2013; 83:559-63. [PMID: 24374263 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2013.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2013] [Revised: 10/08/2013] [Accepted: 11/15/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To find out whether in varicocele embolization the copolymer cyanoacrylate glue (NBCA-MS) has a better patient tolerance compared to the monomer n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (NBCA). MATERIALS AND METHODS N=112 insufficient spermatic veins (left sided N=84, right sided N=28) diagnosed in N=83 adult males were prospectively randomized for blinded embolization with either NBCA N=54 (Histoacryl) or with NBCA-MS N=58 (Glubran2). Before, during and up to one week after embolization, patient discomfort was assessed by a standardized pain scale. Type, location and side of discomfort were noted. Statistical analysis was performed with the Mann-Whitney U-test, the McNemar test and the Fisher's exact test. RESULTS Embolization caused discomfort in N=48/112 (43%) spermatic veins, comprising N=26/54 (48%) in the NBCA group and N=22/58 (38%) in the NBCA-MS group. During the week after embolization, the overall number of discomfort reports rose to N=62/106 (59%), with an increase to N=30/53 (57%) in the NBCA group and to N=32/53 (60%) in the NBCA-MS group. The number of immediate grade 2 to 4 pain reactions was N=22/112 (20%), and rose to N=37/106 (35%) after one week. No difference in discomfort during embolization and at 1 week after treatment was noted. Characteristics, severity grading, and location of discomfort were similar in both NBCA groups, regardless the time point of observation. CONCLUSION Discomfort after glue embolization of varicocele is a common side effect, which might evolve to pain. The assumed lower inflammatory reaction on NBCA-MS was not translated in an improved tolerance.
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