Effects of bioflavonoids in the management of subclinical varicocele.

BACKGROUND

Subclinical varicocele is a relative rare condition. The aim of this study is to identify the role of bioflavonoids in the management of subclinical varicocele.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We analyzed the medical charts of patients treated for subclinical varicocele with bioflavonoids between 1999 and 2004; inclusion criteria were created before treatment. Short and long-term results after treatment were studied and compared with untreated patients.

RESULTS

One hundred and sixty-eight patients with left subclinical varicocele were included in the study. Long-term results showed a possible correlation between use of bioflavonoids and lesser rate of clinical progression to palpable varicocele (11 vs. 31%), higher rate of stable vein reflux (47 vs. 38%) and higher resolution rate (41 vs. 31%) (p > 0.05). Bioflavonoids did not show any protective factor against testicular growth arrest.

CONCLUSIONS

Subclinical varicocele should be considered as the starting point of varicocele, and although the use of bioflavonoids in patients with subclinical varicocele could reduce the development of palpable varicocele, it cannot prevent the onset of testicular growth arrest.