What is a varicocele embolization?
A varicocele is a varicose vein of the testicle and scrotum that may cause pain, testicular atrophy (shrinkage) or fertility problems. Veins contain one-way valves that work to allow blood to flow from the testicles and scrotum back to the heart. When these valves fail, the blood pools and enlarges the veins around the testicle in the scrotum to cause a varicocele. Open surgical ligation, performed by a urologist, is a common treatment for symptomatic varicoceles. However, another option called varicocele embolization, is a nonsurgical treatment performed by an interventional radiologist and is as effective as surgery with less risk, less pain, and a shorter recovery time. Patients considering surgical treatment should also get a second opinion from an interventional radiologist to ensure they know all of their treatment options. Prevalence Approximately 10 percent of all men have varicoceles — among infertile couples, the incidence of varicoceles increases to 30 percent Highest occurr
