What Is It?
A varicocele is an enlarged and lengthened vein in the scrotum. It can cause pain, swelling and infertility. Symptoms include pain, especially after sitting or standing for a long time. Your doctor can typically confirm the presence of a varicocele with a physical exam and a follow-up ultrasound examination. Varicocele embolization safely relieves that pain and swelling and may improve sperm quality for infertile couples.
Varicocele embolization is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicoceles, which are enlarged veins within the scrotum. These veins are similar to varicose veins that occur in the legs. Varicoceles can cause discomfort, pain, and sometimes fertility issues.
The purpose of embolization is to improve symptoms related to varicoceles, such as pain or discomfort, and potentially to improve fertility. By redirecting blood flow away from the varicocele, the procedure can relieve pressure on the affected veins and reduce symptoms.
As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with varicocele embolization, although they are rare. These may include infection, bleeding, or damage to nearby structures. However, overall, varicocele embolization is considered safe and effective for the treatment of varicoceles.
How Is It Treated?
Varicocele embolization is performed by one of our interventional radiologists in the hospital. The radiologist guides a catheter into the femoral artery located in the groin area and maneuvers it to the arteries supplying the scrotum. Then a contrast dye is injected to allow the radiologist to use live imaging to visualize the pathways to the abnormal vein. Tiny particles are used to block the vein and direct blood to healthy veins. Blood flow is diverted and reduces the swelling and pressure.
During the embolization procedure:
- Preparation – The patient will typically be given a mild sedative to help them relax. The area where the catheter will be inserted, usually the groin or neck, is cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic.
- Insertion of Catheter – A small incision is made in the skin, and a thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into a vein, usually in the groin or neck.
- Guiding the Catheter – Using fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray imaging), the interventional radiologist guides the catheter through the veins to the varicocele.
- Embolization – Once the problematic veins are identified, the interventional radiologist will use various embolic agents (such as coils, foam, or sclerosing agents) to block off these veins. This process is known as embolization. The choice of embolic agent depends on factors such as the size and location of the veins being treated.
- Monitoring and Recovery – After the embolization, the catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to the insertion site to prevent bleeding. The patient may need to lie still for a short time to prevent complications. Most patients can go home the same day as the procedure, and normal activities can usually be resumed within a few days.
How Do I Prep For The Procedure?
Varicocele embolization is an inpatient procedure so you will stay overnight in the hospital.
Do not eat or drink anything after midnight (12:00 a.m.) the night before your exam. No breakfast or water in the morning. No aspirin or blood thinners to be taken 5 days prior to the procedure.
Bring all medications with you to the hospital.
What Happens After The Procedure?
After the procedure, most men experience some pain, and you will be provided medications to control pain and swelling. You can resume normal activities that don’t involve heavy lifting or straining. You can resume heavier activities four weeks following the procedure.
