[Antegrade scrotal phlebography of the v. spermatica in left-sided testicular varicocele--are retrograde phlebographic classifications suitable for typing?].

PURPOSE

The study was conducted to clarify whether the use of classifications in base of retrograde phlebography would be sufficiently suitable for typifying the findings of antegrade phlebography examinations of the internal spermatic vein with regard to antegrade sclerotherapy.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

In course of antegrade sclerotherapy in 236 patients with previously untreated idiopathic left-sided varicocele, phlebography via scrotal approach was performed. The results were compared with the relevant findings of the pre-existing classifications of the retrograde exams.

RESULTS

Comparison with the classifications of Bähren and Braedel showed distinct discrepancies. In 28.8% (Bähren) respectively 36.4% (Braedel) of our findings, typification was unsuccessful. Correspondence was found with the Riedl-classification. Collateral vessels however, are not sufficiently differentiated.

CONCLUSION

Retrograde classifications proved insufficient in typifying the findings of antegrade phlebography of the internal spermatic vein. A more subtle classification is required. This has been worked out and presented.