Thromboses of the pampiniform plexi after subinguinal varicocelectomy

To present the Authors' experience with spermatic vein thrombosis after varicocelectomy.

The medical charts of patients treated for varicocele at the Authors' Institution between January 2008 and January 2013 were reviewed; inclusion and exclusion criteria were created. Data were analyzed focusing on the clinical diagnosis of spermatic vein thrombosis after varicocelectomy performed using two different techniques.

After revision of the medical charts and in compliance with the inclusion criteria previously established, 188 patients underwent varicocelectomy: 112 with laparoscopic technique and 76 patients with subinguinal technique. A total of five cases of spermatic vein thrombosis (2.6%) were diagnosed between 6 and 12 days after surgery. All these patients had received the subinguinal technique (6.5%). All the patients were managed conservatively.

Spermatic vein thrombosis after surgery is a rare complication but its onset should be considered as a possible event in patients with inguinal and scrotal pain. To manage this condition after diagnosis surgeons may opt for a surgical or clinical approach, either with drugs or local heat, rest and scrotal support.