comparison between laparoscopic varicocelectomy and the open method. Our experience at the hospitals of the Royal Medical Services

ABSTRACT

To report our experience in laparoscopic varicocelectomy in the treatment of varicocele in adults and to compare the results with those treated by the open method. During the period from January 1998 till January 2001 two groups of adult patients with varicocele were simultaneously operated on at the hospitals of the Royal Medical Services, group I by laparoscopy and group II by open method. Each group included 100 patients. There was no significant difference regarding the operative time between the two groups. However, group I patients had significantly less consumption of pethidine equivalent for postoperative pain control, they were mobilized earlier, had a shorter hospital stay, and a faster return to normal activities and less complication rates. None of this group needed conversion to the open method. Laparoscopic varicocelectomy has results similar to those of the open method. However, its postoperative advantages compared to the open approach are obvious