The Role of Varicocelectomy on Semem Parameters and Fertility

Abstract

Background: The most common cause of male infertility is varicocele, and varicocele is the most common correctable cause of male factor infertility. In this article we reviewed the concept of varicocele in terms of its diagnosis, method of treatment, indications for treatment, treatment outcomes.
Objectives: The main purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of varicocelectomy on male semen parameters and infertility.
Material & Methods: This observational, prospective study was conducted in the Department of Surgery, Medical Teaching
Institute Mardan Medical complex KPK as well as in the private clinical practice, from Feb 2017 to December2017, 98 consecutive patients having large size varicocele were included for the study. The records and database of 98 patients who underwent varicocele repair for subfertility were reviewed prospectively. All men had at least 2 preoperative semen analyses as well as semen testing at 3 and 6 months postoperatively.
Results: Those 98 patients who met the study inclusion criteria mean sperm counts increased significantly by 3 and 6 months after varicocelectomy (by 49% and 31% by 3 and 6 months, p = 0.02 and 0.04, respectively). After 6 months there were no further statistically significant differences in the improvement in semen volume, motility, count or total motile count comparing the results at 3, 6 months postoperatively.
Conclusions: Sperm parameters and chances of pregnancy improve by 3 and 6 months after varicocele repair.