Objectives: To assess the effectiveness of microsurgical varicocelectomy for the treatment of recurrent varicoceles associated with orchalgia.
Methods: Twelve patients with recurrent (or persistent) painful varicocele underwent microsurgical varicocelectomy. Follow-up assessment was available for 11 patients and included a postoperative questionnaire and scrotal examination.
Results: Pain disappeared completely in 6 of the 11 patients, and pain severity was reduced in 4 additional patients after microsurgical varicocelectomy, for an overall favorable response in 10 of 11 patients. Most men returned to full activities within 1 month after microsurgical varicocelectomy.
Conclusions: Microsurgical varicocelectomy is an effective testicular-sparing treatment modality for recurrent painful varicocele and should be offered to patients who have failed conservative measures.