The effects of subinguinal varicocelectomy on Kruger morphology and semen parameters

Purpose

We studied the effect of varicocele ligation on Kruger strict morphology criteria and semen parameters in patients with infertility.

Materials and Methods

A total of 90 patients diagnosed with varicoceles and a normal morphological sperm ratio of less than 14% were evaluated before and 6 months after varicocelectomy. Preoperatively and postoperatively sperm density, motility and morphology using Kruger strict criteria were analyzed. The Wilcoxon test was used to measure levels of statistical significance in all analyses.

Results

Significant improvement in sperm concentration and motility was evident after varicocele ligation (p <0.0002 and <0.0001, respectively). Using the Kruger classification sperm morphology evaluation revealed a significant increase in the percent of normal forms, and of forms with head and acrosome defects (p <0.0001, <0.0014 and <0.0028, respectively). There were no concomitant changes in strict morphology in forms with mid piece and tail defects or immature forms (p >0.05). Of the 90 patients 18 (20%) achieved a successful full-term pregnancy, including 14 via natural cycle intercourse and 4 by intrauterine insemination.

Conclusions

Surgical correction of varicocele was associated with significant improvement in density, motility and sperm morphology evaluated using the Kruger classification.