[Treatment of varicocele]

Varicocele may cause scrotal pain and swelling, and may be associated with retardation of testicular growth, impaired sperm quality and infertility. Imaging methods may reveal subclinical varicocele. The condition may be treated with high or low ligation of the testicular veins or occlusion via catheter. The occluding material can consist of metal coils or various liquids such as sclerosing agents, glue or heated contrast medium. Good results are reported for clinical symptoms and sperm quality, while the effect on pregnancy rates varies considerably. The rate of complications is low in large series.