Varicocele embolization is a minimally invasive alternative to surgery for men with testicular varicoceles. It is typically performed in an interventional radiology clinic as an outpatient procedure that is fast, safe, and effective.
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How it Works | Benefits | Varicocele Embolization vs Surgery | FAQ
During an embolization procedure, a varicocele specialist starts by creating a small incision. Using image guidance, the doctor threads a catheter through the body’s circulatory system until it reaches the affected veins in the scrotum.
The catheter is then used to deliver medical-grade metal coils, chemical agents or other embolic particles into the enlarged veins. This prevents the varicocele veins from getting oxygen, making them shrink while redirecting blood flow to healthy vessels.
About 15% of men will have a testicular varicocele in their lifetime. While some patients have no symptoms, others experience scrotal pain and swelling from the affected testicular veins. Varicoceles are also associated with fertility issues. In fact, 40% of subfertile men will be found to have a varicocele.1
Embolization can relieve chronic pain while improving sperm quality and mobility. According to recent research, over 90% of patients have less pain after embolization, and up to 60% can conceive naturally following treatment.2
For men with symptomatic varicoceles, there are two main treatment options: embolization and surgery. Varicocele repair procedures like open or laparoscopic varicocelectomies use surgical techniques to separate the varicoceles from healthy veins. Embolization offers a varicocele treatment without surgery.
While embolization and surgical procedures are both effective treatments for varicoceles, embolization offers a few specific advantages:
Varicocele embolization is an FDA-approved treatment for testicular varicoceles with a high safety profile.
Embolization procedures are performed by interventional radiologists who specialize in minimally invasive, image-guided procedures.
Percutaneous varicocele embolization is successful in 80-90% of cases. In some cases, patient anatomy may prevent interventional radiologists from accessing the affected veins.
Varicoceles can come back in about 15% of cases and can be treated with reintervention.
Same patients experience temporary pain after an embolization procedure, but it can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medication and resolves in a week or two. Hydroceles, a buildup of fluid in the scrotum, can occur in rare cases.
Embolization is a standard procedure for treating testicular varicoceles. It is covered by many insurance plans, including Medicare.
If you have questions about varicocele embolization, our friendly staff is here to help. You can reach our NJ radiology clinic at 908-874-9236 for information or to schedule a consultation.
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