Treatment · Vascular
Varicocele Embolization
A varicocele is treated from inside the vein through a two-millimetre puncture. No scrotal incision, no general anaesthetic, and no stitches to remove.
Who it is for
Embolization is considered when a varicocele is confirmed on Doppler ultrasound and is causing symptoms — a dull ache or heaviness in the scrotum, a visible cluster of veins, testicular volume loss, or impaired semen parameters during a fertility workup.
It is also the usual choice after a previous surgical repair has recurred, because the vein can be reached from inside without operating through scarred tissue.
Risks and alternatives
Possible risks
Temporary discomfort, bruising, minor bleeding or infection can occur. Rarely, an embolic coil or liquid may move; the varicocele can persist or recur and further treatment may be needed.
Other options
Observation when symptoms are mild, or surgical repair after a fertility and urology assessment.
Clinical source: CIRSE
How the procedure works
Access
A local anaesthetic at the groin or neck, then a thin catheter is introduced into the vein. You stay awake and feel no pain.
Mapping
Contrast is injected to display the refluxing internal spermatic vein and every collateral feeding it.
Occlusion
Coils and a sclerosing agent close the vein along its length, so blood is redirected into healthy drainage.
Recovery
A small dressing, two to four hours of observation, then discharge. Light activity the next day.
Compared with surgery
| Aspect | Embolization | Open surgery |
|---|---|---|
| Incision | 2 mm puncture | Groin or scrotal incision |
| Anaesthesia | Local | General or spinal |
| Hospital stay | Same day | Often overnight |
| Return to work | 1–2 days | 1–3 weeks |
| Scar | None | Yes |
General guidance only. Suitability, benefit and risk are assessed individually from your own imaging.
Questions patients ask
Does it hurt?
You feel the local anaesthetic and a sensation of pressure. The catheter itself is not painful, and most patients describe mild groin tenderness for a day or two afterwards.
When do semen parameters improve?
Because sperm production runs on a roughly three-month cycle, a control analysis at three months is the earliest meaningful measure, with a further check at six months.
Is radiation exposure a concern?
Modern angiography equipment and shielding keep the dose low, and technique is planned to keep imaging time to a minimum. Your specific case is discussed with you beforehand.
How soon can I fly home?
Usually the day after the procedure, following a short examination. Three nights in İzmir is the schedule we plan for, which leaves room for the workup and the check.
Can a recurrence after surgery be treated?
Yes. Embolization is often the preferred approach for recurrence, since the vein and its collaterals are reached from within rather than through previously operated tissue.