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Updated: Sep 11, 2025
02:58
Combination of High Ligation and Intraoperative Embolization using Polidocanol for Treatment of Varicoceles
Published on: December 22, 2023
487
Recent Trends in the Management of Varicocele
Tamás Takács1,2, Anett Szabó1,3, Zsolt Kopa1,2,3
1Centre of Andrology, Department of Urology, Semmelweis University, 1082 Budapest, Hungary.
Journal of Clinical Medicine
|August 14, 2025
Summary
Varicocele, a common cause of male infertility, has complex causes and evolving treatments. Research highlights new diagnostic tools and expanded treatment indications, though further evidence is needed for widespread adoption.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Reproductive Medicine
- Andrology
Background:
- Varicocele is a prevalent condition impacting male fertility.
- Its pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment are subjects of ongoing research and discussion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in varicocele diagnosis and management.
- To explore novel diagnostic modalities, therapeutic innovations, and prognostic markers.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search of PubMed database.
- Inclusion of clinical studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and guidelines from the past decade.
Main Results:
- Varicocele pathophysiology is multifactorial, involving oxidative stress, hypoxia, inflammation, and genetics.
- Biomarkers (microRNAs, antisperm antibodies, DNA fragmentation) show potential but need validation.
- Advanced imaging like shear wave elastography may enhance diagnosis.
- Microsurgery is standard, but innovations and non-surgical options are emerging.
- Treatment indications are broadening to include azoospermia and hypogonadism.
Conclusions:
- Varicocele management is advancing with new diagnostic and therapeutic insights.
- Further high-level evidence is required to support expanded treatment indications and novel approaches.
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