Varicocele Embolization

A varicocele is a group of dilated blood vessels, or varicose veins, in the scrotum. It forms when faulty valves allow blood to flow in reverse and pool, causing the veins to enlarge. Varicoceles are common, affecting up to 20% of men, especially those in their 20s and 30s. They are most common on the left side and will not go away on their own once formed.

Varicocele embolization is a minimally invasive, outpatient alternative to varicocele surgery. Performed by an interventional radiologist, it treats the abnormal veins responsible for the varicocele without surgery. It is highly effective, requires no hospital stay, and most patients return to normal activities in 2 to 3 days.

The interventional radiologist inserts a tiny catheter into a vein in the upper thigh or neck, then uses x-ray imaging to guide it through the blood vessels to the varicocele. Blood flow through the affected vein is blocked, or embolized, which causes the varicocele to shrink and eventually disappear.

Both treat the same condition, but the approach differs:

• Embolization uses a small catheter access point rather than a surgical incision.
• It is performed on an outpatient basis with no hospital stay.
• Most patients return to normal activities within a few days.
• It is highly effective and offers outcomes comparable to surgery.

Men without symptoms do not typically need treatment. Those who may benefit include men experiencing:

• Pain or a dull, aching discomfort
• Infertility or fertility concerns
• Testicular shrinking

Left untreated, varicoceles can continue to affect sperm production and quality. A consultation is the best way to determine whether embolization is right for you.

No. Varicocele embolization is an outpatient procedure and requires no hospital stay.

Recovery is typically quick. Most patients return to normal activities within 2 to 3 days. Your care team will give you specific instructions based on your treatment.

Varicocele embolization is performed using FDA-cleared medical devices. Published studies have demonstrated success rates of approximately 90%, comparable to surgical varicocelectomy.

Varicoceles are commonly associated with infertility, and as many as 40% of men with decreased fertility have a varicocele. Following treatment, improvements in sperm count and semen quality are typically seen within 3 to 6 months. Your physician can discuss what to expect based on your individual situation.

Varicoceles may return over time. Embolization is safe to repeat, even for patients who have had surgery in the past. Having embolization also does not prevent you from having surgery in the future if needed.

If the symptoms of a varicocele are keeping you from living your best life, visit our contact page or call us to schedule a consultation. We work with all members of your care team to find the treatment that is right for you.