Treatment for Varicoceles Part 2

Radiological embolization

A few individuals who have a recurrent of a varicocele or complex varicoceles may undergo a procedure known as radiological embolization. This is an outpatient procedure done in the radiology suite. Local anesthetic is infiltrated on the opposite groin and a small needle is placed into a large vein in the groin or neck.

This procedure is performed by radiologists using a special tube that is inserted and directed to the varicocele. After radiographic visualization of the enlarged veins of the pampiniform plexus, coils or balloons are used to block the veins. The blockage of the veins leads to their collapse as they can’t fill with blood anymore. The procedure is done under mild intravenous sedation or local anesthetic and usually takes several hours to complete.

Complications may include varicocele persistence/recurrence, coil migration and complications at the venous access site. This technique is not widely available at all medical centers.

For those who undergo a radiological embolization, the recovery period is also short and most individuals recover within 24-48 hours. The pain is very mild and like the surgery, individuals are asked to refrain from heavy exercise and lifting for 2 weeks. Unlike surgery, the recurrence rates after embolization are much higher.