About this trial
This study aims to evaluate how varicocele surgery (varicocelectomy) affects the number of immature sperm cells (spermatogenic cells) found in the semen of infertile men. Varicocele, an abnormal dilation of veins in the scrotum, is a common cause of male infertility that can negatively impact semen quality and overall testicular function. While surgery is widely performed to improve standard semen parameters, this study specifically investigates its impact on the shedding of immature germ cells into the seminal fluid, which can be an indicator of impaired sperm production.
Researchers will enroll 40 infertile married men, aged 20 to 45, who have been diagnosed with a clinical varicocele and exhibit abnormal semen parameters. All participants will undergo a single surgical intervention known as a subinguinal microsurgical varicocelectomy. To measure the effects of the surgery, participants will undergo careful semen analysis before the procedure, and again at 3 and 6 months postoperatively. The primary goal is to track changes in the spermatogenic cell count and abnormal sperm morphology, and to explore how these changes correlate with conventional semen parameters like sperm concentration, motility, and vitality.
Eligibility criteria
This trial does not accept healthy volunteersQualifiers
Infertile married males diagnosed with clinical varicocele.
Age between 20-45 years.
Patients indicated for varicocelectomy according to standard clinical guidelines.
Abnormal or suboptimal semen parameters on at least two semen analyses.
Disqualifiers
Azoospermic patients (complete absence of sperm in semen).
History of previous varicocelectomy or scrotal surgery.
Presence of other known causes of infertility (e.g., genetic abnormalities, obstructive azoospermia).
Active genital infection or systemic infection affecting semen analysis.
Trial design
Single group
Treatments tested in this trial
Subinguinal Microsurgical Varicocelectomy
Procedure/SurgeryA 3-4 cm subinguinal incision will be made below the external ring. Under 5-10X microscopic magnification, the internal spermatic artery will be identified and preserved. The internal spermatic veins and cremasteric veins, with the exception of vasal veins, will be ligated. The testicular arteries, cremasteric arteries, cremaster muscle fibers, nerves, lymphatic vessels, and vas deferens will be preserved before the spermatic cord is returned and the incision is closed.
Treatment groups
Trial outcomes
Primary outcomes
Change in Seminal Spermatogenic Cell Count
Spermatogenic cell concentration will be quantified using a Neubauer hemocytometer and expressed as x10⁶ cells/mL.
Secondary outcomes
Change in Sperm Concentration
The change in sperm concentration will be analyzed and measured in 10⁶/ml according to the World Health Organization (WHO) Laboratory Manual.
Locations
Sponsors and contacts
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