title: The role of the spermatic cord layers in the development of varicoceles.
abstract: The theory that insufficiency of the spermatic cord layers could be the etiological factor in the development of varicocele is reviewed critically. A prospective study of 40 patients operated upon for a left indirect inguinal hernia was done. The spermatic cord layers were excised as a routine part of the operation but combined manual and Doppler examinations revealed no postoperative reflux into the pampiniform plexus. We conclude that the spermatic cord layers probably do not have a major role in the pathogenesis of varicocele.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D006552:Hernia, Inguinal / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D013085:Spermatic Cord / Q000473:pathology*; D014646:Varicocele / Q000209:etiology*