[Laparoscopic treatment of varicocele]

Herein we report our experience in the treatment of varicocele by endoscopic surgery. After a 5 mm. transverse incision has been made immediately below the umbilicus, air is insufflated and a trocar is introduced through the incision. We then introduce the optics through the trocar and a similar incision is made 4 or 5 cm. above the internal orifice of the left inguinal duct. A grasping forceps is inserted through the second incision to coagulate the dilated testicular veins. These veins are easily identifiable, making dissection unnecessary. In our series comprised of 16 patients, good results were achieved in 68.7% and no important complications were observed.