[Idiopathic left-sided varicocele. An ontogenetic abnormality?].

Phlebograms for sclerotherapy of varicoceles were performed in 659 patients. In 484 cases no valves of the left spermatic vein could be demonstrated. However, 172 patients showed sufficient valves or absent insertions of the spermatic veins at typical point with retrograde flow through collaterals (persistent intercardinal anastomoses). The value of nutcracker phenomena I and II is discussed. Ontogenetic disorders in the development of the secondary abdominal venous system are responsible for the occurrence of the idiopathic left-sided varicocele.