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Correlation between semen parameters and retrograde flow into the pampiniform plexus before and after varicocelectomy
E Segenreich1, S R Israilov, J Shmueli
1Andrological Unit, Institute or Urology, Rabin Medical Center, Petah Tiqva, Israel.
Objective:
To compare, before and after repair of varicocele, the semen parameters (SP) in relation to the persistence of retrograde vein flow.
Material And Methods:
We examined the correlation between semen characteristics and retrograde flow (RF) into the pampiniform plexus in 158 patients with varicocele, before and after low inguinal spermatic vein ligation.
Results:
The results of the investigation before surgery showed that all patients had RF and also a decrease in quantitative and qualitative SP. After surgery an improvement was observed in SP and there was a decrease in RF as a function of time elapsing from surgery. One year after surgery, an improvement in SP in 136 (86.1%) patients was observed. In 14 (8.8%) no change was noted and in 8 (5.1%) there was a deterioration in SP. Comparison between increased SP and persistence of RF 1 year after surgery revealed that of the 136 patients who showed improvement in SP, 124 (91.1%) did not have RF. Of the 14 patients with no improvement in SP, 12 (85.7%) were free of RF and 9 patients with deteriorated SP and bilateral RF. Amongst 132 infertile men, the wives of 55 (41.6%) became pregnant. None of these 55 men demonstrate RF.
Conclusions:
These results revealed a significant correlation between the improvement of SP, pregnancy in patients' wives and disappearance of RF. These results may be considered as a parameter of successful varicocelectomy.
