Improvements in Patient-reported Sexual Function After Microsurgical Varicocelectomy

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Andrology
• Reproductive Medicine

Background:

• Varicocele, a common cause of male infertility, is associated with testicular dysfunction and hypogonadism.
• Low serum testosterone levels can negatively impact male sexual health, including erectile and ejaculatory functions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of varicocelectomy in improving serum testosterone levels.
• To assess the impact of varicocelectomy on male sexual function using the Male Sexual Health Questionnaire (MSHQ).

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of patients who underwent varicocelectomy.
• Pre- and postoperative assessment of serum testosterone and sexual function via the MSHQ.
• Statistical comparison of clinical parameters before and after surgery using paired t-tests.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements were observed in total MSHQ scores, as well as erectile and ejaculatory function domains.
• Over 40% of patients reported improved erectile function, and over 50% reported improved ejaculatory function post-surgery.
• A significant increase in serum testosterone levels was noted following varicocelectomy.

Conclusions:

• Microsurgical varicocelectomy is effective in enhancing both serum testosterone and patient-reported sexual functions.
• Varicocelectomy can be recommended to patients as a treatment with the potential to improve hypogonadism and sexual health outcomes.