The role of active intervention (surgery or angiographic procedure) to correct varicocele in the infertile male is controversial. Often it may be unnecessary and the techniques used have not always been proven to be effective. The intervention should only be considered when definite criteria are present, conservative therapy has failed, and the patient is strongly in favor of having the procedure performed.
Criteria to be considered when evaluating a patient for possible varicocele intervention - All of the following:
(1) childlessness for at least 1 year
(2) varicocele confirmed by physical and technical examination
(3) low testicular volume on the affected side
(4) subnormal semen parameters
(5) FSH not elevated above the upper limit of normal
(6) ovulation and tubal patency in the female partner confirmed
All investigations (semen analysis, FSH levels) are performed at least twice within 4-12 weeks.
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
