Nationwide survey to evaluate the characteristics of medical utilization in patients with varicocele in Taiwan

Objective: The authors aim to analyze age, geographic, and seasonal variations in the medical services utilization of patients with varicocele in Taiwan using a population-based study. Methods: Between 2001 and 2008, a retrospective nationwide population-based study was conducted using comprehensive data on the characteristics of medical services utilization by patients with varicocele in Taiwan obtained from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. Parameters for comparison included newly diagnosed varicocele cases, the number of varicocelectomies, and incidence rates every year, and newly diagnosed varicocele cases, the number of outpatient consults due to varicocele, and the numbers of varicocelectomies by age group, season, and area of Taiwan. Results: An average of 303 newly diagnosed varicocele cases and an average of 63.3 varicocelectomy procedures per year per million were reported during the study period. More varicocelectomies were performed in patients aged 10-39 years. The numbers of newly diagnosed varicocele cases and outpatient visits were highest during summer, followed by during spring, autumn, and winter, and in the north of Taiwan, followed by in the center, south, and east. Conclusion: The numbers of newly diagnosed varicocele cases and outpatient visits due to varicocele are highest in summer among all seasons and lowest in eastern Taiwan compared to other parts of the country. Medical education programs on varicocele are needed, especially for those living in eastern Taiwan.