Is phlebography crucial in Tauber varicocele sclerotherapy?

Abstract

Objectives. Our aim was to discover whether it is possible to eliminate retrograde phlebography in the treatment of varicocele by using Tauber procedure. Methods. We treated 102 consecutive left varicocele patients between November 2003 and May 2007. In 72 patients (Group A) we used the Tauber procedure, without performing preliminary retrograde phlebography, and injecting saline solution instead of contrast medium; in 30 patients (Group B) we performed the standard Tauber procedure. We followed up with scrotal color Doppler Ultrasonography and spermograms at 6 months. Results. The patients who underwent the Tauber procedure without phlebography (Group A) obtained results similar to those treated with phlebography (Group B). With our technique, surgical time and costs are reduced and, most importantly, exposure to radiation is avoided. Conclusions. We believe that Tauber procedure for the treatment of varicocele can be performed without retrograde phlebography.