A varicocele is an abnormal tortuosity and dilatation of the veins of pampiniform plexus within the spermatic cord, which is usually best demonstrated with the patient in the standing position. Valsalva’s maneuver brings out a varicocele, and assuming ever, after surgical intervention, the sperm quality is improved. The exact mechanism of the effect of varicocelectomy on semen quality is not clear.
A clinical study was made on 20 cases of varicocele during the period from August 1981 to July 1983, at Masan Korea General Hospital. The results were obtained as follows:
1. During this period, the total number of in-patients at Department of Urology was 598, among which 20 cases had varicocele, giving a rate of about 3% of total in-patients.
2. The age distribution was between 21 and 35 year, showing the highest incidence in 21 to 30 year (90%) age group.
3. The side of the lesion showed 95% in left, and 5% in right.
4. The chief complaint showed dragging pain and palpable mass in 90% and infertility in 10%.
5. In all cases, semen analysis was done preoperatively, among ’which 70% shoed poor semen quality. Postoperatively eight cases of semen analysis was done with the result of 62.5% of improvement.
6. In all cases, operation was performed by Palomo’s procedure.
7. No complication or recurrence was found in one year follow up study.
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