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Varicoceles cause a heavy scrotal ache and are linked to a large share of male infertility. Embolization treats both through a single needle puncture, with roughly a 90% success rate.
Like the rest of your body, your scrotum contains veins that keep the area healthy by supplying oxygen and nutrients. When you have a varicocele, those veins become enlarged because the valves inside them are not functioning well.
Much like the varicose veins that commonly affect the legs, varicoceles can cause bothersome symptoms, and over time a varicocele may contribute to infertility.
When you have a varicocele, blood cannot flow normally within the scrotum. That strains the nerves and tissue in the area, producing discomfort and pain. You can have a varicocele with no noticeable symptoms, but those that do arise typically affect the left testicle.
Many people describe varicocele pain as a heavy achiness. Moving about or standing for a while tends to make it worse.
Research findings are mixed, but enlarged veins are believed to cause roughly 70% of secondary infertility cases in men. If you have a history of normal fertility and then struggle later, a varicocele could be the reason. Varicoceles are also present in up to 40% of men with infertility of any type.
They may interfere with fertility by:
In teenagers, a varicocele may affect fertility by interfering with testicular development.
Varicocele embolization reduces blood flow to the problematic vein by placing a coil through a catheter. Dr. Golowa guides the catheter using X-ray imaging during this outpatient, non-surgical procedure.
Because it requires only a tiny puncture, there is no hospital stay, no lengthy recovery, and none of the risks that come with surgery. Within a day or so you should be able to return to your usual activities.
With roughly a 90% success rate, most people experience symptom relief quickly. Fertility may improve within a few months, as sperm quality and testicular health recover.
To learn more about varicocele embolization, or to find out whether you are a good candidate, call our office at (212) 991-9991 or book an appointment with Dr. Golowa.
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