Urologie pro praxi 3/2022

The importance of Doppler ultrasonography in the solution of varicocele

Varicocele is clinically defined as an abnormal dilation of the veins of the pampiniform venous plexus and the testicular veins with continuous or intermittent reflux of venous blood. Varicocele occurs primarily on the left side and is among the most common causes of reduced sperm count and quality, leading to infertility and subfertility. Physical examination is the standard diagnostic method for detecting varicocele, but the diagnosis of asymptomatic and impalpable varicocele is difficult. These conditions can be detected only by using ultrasonography, which is the primary imaging method for the diagnosis of varicocele. The venous diameter is evaluated using B-mode sonography, and venous reflux is assessed using color Doppler sonography.

Keywords: physical and ultrasonographic examination of varicocele.