Varicocele Embolization is a non-surgical, minimally invasive interventional radiology treatment of varicocele, a common condition in men with enlarged or swollen veins in the scrotum.
The procedure involves blocking the blood supply to the affected gonadal veins, thus causing them to shrink and gradually disappear.
Here, an interventional radiologist makes a minute incision to insert a thin tube known as a catheter into the patient's leg. With the help of X-ray imaging, the catheter is navigated toward the varicocele vein in the testicle. A dye is injected to create an X-ray map, also known as a venogram, of the affected vein.
The catheter is used to deploy small metallic coils that effectively block the blood flow and prevent the flow of nutrients to the enlarged vein. Eventually, the varicocele reduces in size and finally disappears.
Men with varicocele who experience mild or no symptoms do not need treatment. However, treatment is needed if the patient experiences the following symptoms:
Standing for long hours or heavy lifting may cause discomfort in the affected area.
Studies suggest that the quality and quantity of the sperm produced by men with varicocele are impacted, leading to infertility.
The affected testicle is smaller than the other testicle.
A varicocele is usually found in the left testicle. A self-examination of the scrotum can help men in the early detection of varicocele. The swollen vein looks lumpy and feels like a "bag of worms".
In many instances, varicoceles are diagnosed during a physical examination. In conditions where the symptoms are not clear, the diagnosis can be made with the help of the following:
Varicocele Embolization is a safe procedure with a minimal 0-1% complication rate compared to 1-3% for surgical procedures.
It involves no incision, no stitches, and no general anaesthesia. Recovery time for varicocele Embolization patients is less than 24 hours as the procedure does not include healing and removal of stitches.
The procedure is completely safe from post-surgical complications such as infections and hydrocele.
It is also equally effective for men who experience infertility due to varicocele.
Varicocele is a very common condition among men that is on the rise, with over 10 million cases per year in India alone.
7% of men in India suffer from infertility, and varicocele is the main cause of infertility.
The success rate of the varicocele Embolization procedure in the country is over 90%.
When the veins in the scrotum get dilated or their walls weaken, leading to the pooling of blood within, varicocele occurs. Also, if the valves in the veins are damaged, it can result in varicocele.
Yes, a varicocele may affect fertility among men. The sperm count decreases, the quality of the sperm is affected, and it may lead to erectile dysfunction too.
You must consult a urologist if you experience a burning sensation or bleeding during urinating or pain and swelling around the genital area.
You must avoid wearing tight clothes, causing trauma or discomfort to the area, and indulging in sexual activity.
The treatments for varicocele include varicocele Embolization, microscopic varicocelectomy, open surgery, and laparoscopic varicocelectomy.
Having worked with premier healthcare facilities in Hyderabad and Boston, Dr. Arjun Somireddy has gained immense expertise in the treatment of varicocele Embolization.
Call us at +91-8074901386 or send an email to contact@drarjunreddyir.com today to get started with your treatment.