Effect of Varicocelectomy on Spermatogenic Cell Count and Semen Parameters (NCT07684963) | Clinical Trial Compass
Not Yet RecruitingNot Applicable
Effect of Varicocelectomy on Spermatogenic Cell Count and Semen Parameters
40 participantsStarted 2026-08
Plain-language summary
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.
Who can participate
Age range
20 Years – 45 Years
Sex
MALE
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* 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.
Exclusion Criteria:
* 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.
* Use of medications affecting spermatogenesis within the last 3 months (e.g., testosterone, chemotherapy).
* Chronic systemic diseases known to affect fertility (e.g., uncontrolled diabetes, liver failure).
* Severe leukocytospermia as confirmed by peroxidase (Endtz) test exceeding WHO reference limits.
* Pus cell \> 1 million/ml by peroxidase.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Change in Seminal Spermatogenic Cell Count
Timeframe: Preoperatively, and at 3 and 6 months postoperatively.