The Evaluation of Saphenofemoral Insufficiency in Primary Adult Varicocele

ABSTRACT Purpose : The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible relationship between varicocele and sapheno-femoral insufficiency in patients diagnosed with primary varicocele problem. Patients and Methods : A total of 70 patients with the primary diagnosis of varicocele were included into the study. A total of 30 age-matched healthy adults were also included in the study as a control group. Varicocele was diagnosed by palpation and observation of each spermatic cord in standing position before and during a valsalva maneuver. Additionally, scrotal Doppler and lower extremity venous Doppler ultrasonography were performed. Patients who were with spermatic varicose vein larger than 3.0 mm were included in the study group as a varicocele patient. At the lower extremity venous Doppler ultrasonography, a retrograde flow lasting longer than 0.5 seconds during normal breathing or at the valsalva maneuver was considered to be meaningful for sapheno-femoral junction insufficiency. Results