[Videolaparoscopic treatment of varicocele: retrospective study of 165 cases]

Idiopathic varicocele is a common condition that is present in approximately 15% of the general male population. The mechanism by which varicocele exerts a deleterious effect on testicular function and semen quality remains unknown. Nevertheless, it is generally regarded as a significant factor in male infertility. Varicocelectomy is accomplished with a variety of approaches: the inguinal and high retroperitoneal procedures are still commonly accepted methods, but laparoscopic varicocelectomy is currently proving an increasingly popular procedure. The authors report the results of a retrospective study of 165 laparoscopic varicocelectomies performed from 1993 to 2000 and conclude that this approach is simple, safe and effective and should be recommended as the treatment of choice.