What is Percutaneous Embolization for Varicocele?
Varicocele embolization is a minimally invasive procedure performed as an alternative for varicocele surgery.
In this process, liquid substances and tiny coils are placed in a blood vessel for diverting the flow of blood from a varicocele.
This process is performed with the help of a catheter under imaging assistance by the interventional radiologist or IR on an outpatient basis.
How is Varicocele treated?
There are three main approaches to varicocele. These include,
Open Surgery
Laparoscopic Surgery
Microsurgery
Even though the success rate of surgery and varicocele embolization are almost the same, the recovery time in case of embolization is quicker. Hence varicocele embolization is generally more preferred if a person has a unilateral varicocele.
Surgery, specifically microsurgery is effective and a better option if the varicocele has affected both the testicles.
What is the Pre treatment measures to be taken?
Medical history and physical examination will be conducted before the surgery.
Required medical tests will be performed.
You will be given the instructions that must be followed before your surgery.
Communicate any ongoing medications and allergic reactions to anesthesia if any.
You will be given antibiotics before the procedure to prevent infection.
Avoid smoking in case you are a smoker before your surgery.
How is Percutaneous Varicocele embolization performed?
This procedure is done on an outpatient basis. The complete process generally takes an hour to two.
A consent form will be signed before undergoing the procedure.
You will be taken to the procedure room of the interventional radiology department. With sterile drapes on your back, you will be asked to lie down on a special x-ray table.
The Groin area will then be cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
A local anesthetic injection will be given in the upper thigh to numb the site. A catheter will be inserted for assisting the process. This is done to identify the affected area.
Once it is placed in a correct position then a liquid or small coil called sclerosing agent will be released for diverting the blood flow in the veins near the affected vein.
This will allow the exit of blood from the scrotum normally. Pressure will be relieved from the varicocele regulating the blood flow.
In the final stage, IR will eliminate the catheter and apply a bandage to the thigh entry.
What are the Post surgery events ?
Post your procedure you will be taken to the recovery room. There your blood pressure, heartbeats, and oxygen levels will be monitored. Besides, observation of any potential complications is also done.
After that, your pain will be treated. In case, you feel nausea or vomiting due to anesthesia you will be provided with the medications.
The majority of the patients get discharged on the same day. You can start the normal daily routine tasks within 24 hours post-surgery.
Avoid strenuous activities such as jogging for a few weeks after your surgery.
Take the prescribed medicines timely
Avoid lifting heavyweights
Avoid sexual intercourse for a few weeks post your surgery
Avoid driving
Drink plenty of fluids and water
