Anatomic characteristics of the vessels in the spermatic cord of the varicocele patient: A laparoscopic study / 中华男科学杂志

ABSTRACT

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To study the numbers and locations of spermatic veins, testicular arteries, and lymphatic vessels in the spermatic cord of the varicocele patient under the laparoscope.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Fifty-seven varicocele patients received laparoscopic ligation of spermatic veins, during which we recorded the numbers and observed the locations of spermatic veins, testicular arteries, and spermatic lymphatic vessels.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>During the surgery, we identified 3.3 ± 1.2 spermatic veins, 1.4 ± 0.9 testicular arteries, and 4.3 ± 1.1 spermatic lymphatic vessels. No statistically significant differences were observed between the two side in the numbers of the spermatic veins, testicular arteries and spermatic lymphatic vessels (P > 0.05). The testicular arteries were seen on the exterior of the spermatic veins and winding around them, while the spermatic lymphatic vessels mostly between the veins.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The spermatic veins, testicular arteries, and lymphatic vessels in the spermatic cord of the varicocele patient have their specific anatomic characteristics. Laparoscopic identification of these vessels may contribute to the surgical treatment of varicocele.</p>