Preliminary Experience with a 3D Digital Fluorescence Microscope and Indocyanine Green Angiography in Subinguinal...

This study reports the application and preliminary experience of a three-dimensional (3D) fluorescent digital external-viewing microscope platform using indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence angiography in subinguinal varicocelectomy and explores its impact on surgical outcomes and postoperative recovery. Twenty-six microscope-assisted subinguinal varicocelectomy procedures were performed on 23 patients between September 1, 2024, and October 25, 2024, using this technology. During each surgery, 3 mL of ICG dye was administered via peripheral intravenous injection for angiography. Under fluorescence mode, the arterial and venous structures were visualized; the arteries were marked and preserved, and the veins were ligated. All operations were completed successfully, with an average operative time of 52.65 ± 8.48 min per procedure. The mean time from ICG injection to arterial fluorescence was 45.88 ± 2.10 s, and the mean time to venous fluorescence was 81.61 ± 3.61 s. On average, 2.1 ± 0.84 arteries (range 1-4) were preserved per patient, and several capillary reticular arteries were observed in most patients' spermatic vessels. The 3D fluorescent digital external microscope platform using ICG angiography demonstrates promising potential in subinguinal varicocelectomy. It may become a reliable adjunctive technique in microscope-assisted varicocelectomy, aiding surgeons in accurately identifying and locating arterial branches at all levels, thereby preventing arterial injury during surgery.