Laparoscopic procedure for varicocelectomy.
OBJECTIVE
To report the results of laparoscopic varicocelectomy, a new surgical technique which presents minimal risks and provides an effective management of clinical varicoceles.


METHODS
Between July 1991 and November 1992, 45 laparoscopic varicocelectomies were performed in 44 patients whose ages ranged from 11 to 41 years. Endoscopic ligation, carried out according to the technique described by Palomo, was performed in 14 patients. In the remaining 30 patients ligation of 31 spermatic veins was performed according to Bernardi's procedure.


RESULTS
On post-operative follow-up symptoms disappeared in all the patients treated. Two of the patients showed persistent venous reflux on colour Doppler ultrasound examination.


CONCLUSIONS
The excellent identification of the anatomical structures, the minimal surgical trauma, the decrease in post-operative morbidity and the quick convalescence of the patients have made this new technique a viable alternative to routine open high ligation.
Mischinger
H J
HJ
Department of Surgery, Karl-Franzens University, Medical School, Graz, Austria.
Colombo
T
T
Rauchenwald
M
M
Altziebler
S
S
Steiner
H
H
Vilits
P
P
Hubmer
G
G
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D004724:Endoscopy; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy; D007902:Length of Stay; D008297:Male; D012008:Recurrence; D013085:Spermatic Cord / Q000098:blood supply / Q000601:surgery*; D014646:Varicocele / Q000601:surgery*