Your Surgery Alternative
What previously required invasive surgery can now be done with a tiny needle puncture. Varicocele Embolization is minimally invasive, less painful, safer, and offers a lower risk of side effects.
Minimally Invasive
Shorter Recovery Time
Fewer Complications
The Varicocele Embolization Advantage
Discover why men are choosing this FDA-approved alternative to varicocelectomy for treating varicoceles.
If you’ve been diagnosed with a varicocele, you may have been told that varicocelectomy surgery is your only treatment option. However, did you know that Varicocele Embolization, a non-surgical, FDA-approved alternative to varicocelectomy, is being used to successfully treat varicoceles?
What is Varicocele Embolization?
Varicocele Embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that is used to treat varicoceles, which are dilated and twisted veins in the testicles. It is performed by interventional radiologists, who are specially trained to do minimally invasive vascular procedures.
The procedure involves using X-ray guidance to position a catheter through a small needle puncture in the leg and into the varicocele vein. A dye is injected to create an X-ray map (venogram) of the vein, and tiny metal coils are inserted through the catheter to block the flow of blood to the vein, causing the varicocele to shrink.
Faster Recovery. Greater Comfort.
Recovery from Varicocele Embolization is much faster than invasive surgery because there is no incision to heal or stitches to be removed. The complication rate for Varicocele Embolization is low, at only 0-1%, compared with 1-3% for surgery.
Recovery typically takes less than 24 hours and patients often return to work the next day. This is compared to varicocelectomy, where patients may need to avoid strenuous activity for several days or even weeks. Some complications of varicocelectomy, such as hydrocele (fluid around the testicle) and infection are virtually unheard of after Varicocele Embolization.
Why Choose Washington Vascular Specialists?
For those concerned about fertility, Varicocele Embolization is as effective as surgery (as measured by improvement in semen analysis and pregnancy rates). At Washington Vascular Specialists, our interventional radiologists are highly trained and experienced. They use state-of- the-art equipment and are committed to providing the best possible outcomes for our patients. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that patients receive the highest quality care in a safe and
comfortable environment.
Varicocele Embolization is an effective and efficient treatment option for varicoceles that offers faster recovery time and a lower risk of complications compared to surgery. If you are suffering from varicoceles, we recommend that you schedule a consultation with one of our experts to discuss the best treatment option for you.
Get your questions answered and discover if Interventional Radiology is right for you.
Salman Mufti, MD
Vascular Surgeon
Dr. Salman Mufti is a graduate from Rutgers University Medical School in NJ graduating with the highest honors and a former Edward J. Bloustein Distinguished Scholar. Dr Mufti is performing new cutting edge treatments that involve minimally invasive procedures.