top of page

BackTable / VI / Topic / Procedure

Varicocele Embolization Procedure

Varicocele embolization is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicoceles, which are enlarged veins in the scrotum that can cause pain, swelling, or infertility. During the procedure, an interventional radiologist inserts a catheter through a small incision, typically in the groin or neck, and guides it to the affected veins. Embolic agents are then released to block the enlarged veins, redirecting blood flow to healthier veins and reducing swelling. This technique is highly effective for managing varicoceles, offering a quicker recovery time and fewer complications compared to traditional surgery. Varicocele embolization is commonly recommended for men who experience symptoms or have infertility concerns, providing long-term relief while preserving normal function.

Varicocele Embolization Procedure

Learn more on the BackTable VI Podcast

BackTable is a knowledge resource for physicians by physicians. Get practical advice on Varicocele Embolization and how to build your practice by listening to the BackTable VI Podcast, reading exclusing BackTable Articles, and following the work of our Contributors.

Ep 497 Essential Guide to Varicocele Embolization with Dr. John Matson
00:00 / 01:04

Stay Up To Date

Follow:

Subscribe:

Sign Up:

Pre Varicocele Embolization Procedure Prep

Indications

Varicocele with pain, testicular atrophy, and/or infertility.

Contraindications

• Competent internal spermatic vein valve.
• Non-symptomatic varicocele

Things to Check

• Prior imaging - US/MRI
• Sudden onset of any varicocele, or an isolated right varicocele should prompt imaging of the retroperitoneum to exclude an abdominal or renal mass.

Varicocele Embolization Podcasts

Listen to leading physicians discuss varicocele embolization on the BackTable VI Podcast. Get tips, tricks, and expert guidance from your peers and level up your practice.

Varicocele Embolization Procedure

Right Femoral or IJ Access

• 7 Fr. sheath from the groin, or 5 Fr if accessing from the neck.
• Cannulate the left renal vein and internal spermatic vein.
• Test the internal spermatic vein orifice for reflux under Valsalva with contrast injection.
• Advance catheter or microcatheter (to avoid vasospasm) into the distal gonadal vein.
• Can occlude the entire vein with coils, or a combination of coils, sotradecol, and/or Amplatzer plugs.
• First coils placed at the level of the inguinal canal/superior pubic ramus.
• Limit flow of sclerosant into the scrotum to avoid pampiniform plexus phlebitis via manual pressure or distal coil placement.

Varicocele Embolization Articles

Read our exclusive BackTable VI Articles for quick insights on varicocele embolization, provided by physicians for physicians.

Post Varicocele Embolization Procedure

Outcomes

• Technical success in 90-97%
• Recurrence rate 2-12%

Potential Varicocele Embolization Complications

• Left renal vein thrombosis
• Pampiniform plexus thrombophlebitis
• Treatment failure. Symptoms persist.

Varicocele Embolization Demos

Watch video walkthroughs of varicocele embolization on the BackTable VI expanded content network.

Varicocele Embolization Tools

Check out varicocele embolization apps, calculators, and decision aids to assist you in your day to day practice.

References

[1] Rogers, P., Roberts, A., & Wong, W. (2002). Pocket Radiologist: Interventional Top 100 Diagnoses (1st ed.). AMIRSYS.
[2] Halpern, J., Mittal, S., Pereira, K., Bhatia, S., & Ramasamy, R. (2016). Percutaneous embolization of varicocele: technique, indications, relative contraindications, and complications. Asian Journal of Andrology, 18(2), 234. https://www.ajandrology.com/article.asp?issn=1008-682X;year=2016;volume=18;issue=2;spage=234;epage=238;aulast=Halpern

Disclaimer: The Materials available on https://www.BackTable.com/ are for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for the professional judgment of a healthcare professional in diagnosing and treating patients. The opinions expressed by participants of the BackTable Podcast belong solely to the participants, and do not necessarily reflect the views of BackTable.

backtable-plus-vi-cta.jpg

Podcasts

Essential Guide to Varicocele Embolization with Dr. John Matson on the BackTable VI Podcast)
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Part 2: Technique and Follow-Up with Dr. Mark Meissner and Dr. Michael Cumming on the BackTable VI Podcast)
Multidisciplinary HCC Care: Improving the Patient Experience with Combined Clinics with Dr. Tyler Sandow, Dr. Jonathan Mizrahi, Dr. Steven Young and Deondra Bonds-Adams on the BackTable VI Podcast)

Articles

Contributors

Dr. John Matson on the BackTable VI Podcast

Dr. John Matson

Related Topics

bottom of page