What Is a Varicocele?
A varicocele is an enlargement of the veins (pampiniform plexus) within the scrotum, most often on the left side, due to faulty valves in the gonadal vein. These valves normally help blood flow from the testicles back to the heart—but when they fail, blood pools and pressure builds up.
Common symptoms include:
- Dull ache or heaviness in the scrotum
- Symptoms that worsen with standing or exercise
- Visible or palpable enlarged veins (like a "bag of worms")
- Fertility issues in some men due to impaired sperm production
Up to 15% of men have a varicocele, and it’s present in up to 40% of men evaluated for infertility. While not always symptomatic, a varicocele can affect quality of life and reproductive health.
Traditional Treatment Options from Urologists
- Observation
- For asymptomatic cases with no fertility concerns
- Monitoring with no intervention
- Surgical Varicocelectomy
- Ligation (tying off) of the gonadal vein through an incision in the groin
- May be done with open, laparoscopic, or microscopic technique
Drawbacks:
- Requires general or spinal anesthesia
- Incisions, stitches, and recovery time
- Risk of hydrocele formation (fluid buildup around the testicle)
- Longer downtime than minimally invasive options
At Vascular Clinic, we offer a less invasive, catheter-based alternative:
Varicocele Embolization
How We Treat Varicocele at Vascular Clinic
Varicocele Embolization is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that blocks blood flow through the abnormal scrotal veins—without surgery.
How the Procedure Works:
- Performed under local anesthesia and light sedation
- A catheter is inserted into a vein in the groin or neck
- Using live X-ray (venography), we visualize the gonadal vein and confirm the varicocele
- Microscopic coils or a special sclerosant are placed to block the faulty vein
- Blood is rerouted through healthy veins, and the varicocele begins to shrink
- No incisions on the scrotum—just a small puncture at the access site
- Procedure time: 30–45 minutes
- Go home the same day after brief observation
What to Expect After Embolization
- Most patients resume light activity in 24–48 hours
- No stitches, no general anesthesia, and no disruption of lymphatics
- Mild soreness in the back or groin may occur for a day or two
- Scrotal pain typically resolves within a few weeks
- If infertility is the concern, a repeat semen analysis is performed a few months later to assess improvement
- Follow-up ultrasound confirms closure of varicocele and redirection of blood flow
Results and Safety
- Success rate: >90% in eliminating reflux through the varicocele vein
- Comparable or better than surgery with faster recovery and no scrotal incisions
- Improved sperm count, motility, and morphology in many cases
- Extremely low complication rate—no risk of hydrocele, minimal discomfort
- Can treat both sides in the same session if needed
- If a varicocele recurs (rare), embolization can be safely repeated
What to Expect
- Detailed vascular imaging
- Discussion of findings during your clinic visit
- Explanation of risks and benefits of all options
- Local anesthesia and mild sedation for endovascular cases
- General anesthesia if bypass surgery is needed
- Full wound care support if you have ulcers
- Continued monitoring with ultrasound and clinic visits
- Risk factor management to prevent recurrence
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this affect my testosterone or sexual function?
No. Embolization does not affect hormone levels or sexual function. It is targeted to the veins only.
How long before I feel improvement?
Pain relief may occur within weeks. If addressing fertility, sperm improvement is often noted within 3–6 months.
What if I already had surgery but the varicocele came back?
Embolization is often used for recurrence after surgery and is typically more precise in identifying and sealing all problem veins.
Is this covered by insurance?
Yes. Most insurance plans cover varicocele embolization for pain or infertility. Our team will help verify your benefits.
Why Choose Vascular Clinic?
- Board-Certified Specialists with extensive experience in male pelvic vein embolization
- No scrotal incision, no stitches, no general anesthesia
- Outpatient procedure with fast recovery and minimal discomfort
- Collaborative care with urologists and fertility clinics
- Confidential, compassionate environment for sensitive health concerns
At Vascular Clinic, we combine technical precision with personalized, respectful care. Whether you’re dealing with pain or pursuing fertility, varicocele embolization may be the least invasive and most effective solution available.
