Varicocele Embolization

Varicocele embolization is a safe, minimally invasive procedure used to treat varicoceles, which are abnormally enlarged veins within the scrotum that can cause pain, swelling, or infertility. The interventional radiology specialists at Cooper University Health Care perform this advanced, image-guided treatment as an alternative to surgery, helping patients experience relief and improved fertility outcomes with little downtime.

Cooper is among the only centers in the region offering this leading-edge therapy.

Who May Benefit From Varicocele Embolization

Varicocele embolization may be an option for men who:

• Have pain, heaviness, or swelling in the scrotum
• Have fertility concerns related to varicoceles
• Have persistent symptoms despite conservative management
• Prefer a non-surgical treatment with faster recovery

Advantages of Varicocele Embolization

Compared with surgical repair, varicocele embolization offers several benefits:

• Minimally invasive, same-day procedure, with no hospital stay required
• Little to no pain during or after the procedure
• High technical success rate (>90%) in relieving pain, compared to other surgical techniques
• No general anesthesia – performed with mild, or “twilight,” sedation
• Short recovery times, allowing a faster return to normal activities
• Low risk of complications, including bleeding or infection

What to Expect During the Procedure

During the procedure, an interventional radiologist makes a small pinhole in the skin, typically at the upper thigh. Using ultrasound and X-ray imaging, a thin, flexible tube called a catheter is guided through a vein in the groin (the femoral vein) to the affected gonadal vein.

A contrast dye is injected to create a detailed map of the vein. Once the varicocele is identified, the vein is sealed (or embolized) using tiny coils, medical glue, or a special liquid solution. This process redirects blood flow away from the enlarged veins, relieving pressure and improving blood circulation in the area.

The entire procedure is performed under mild sedation and typically takes about one hour.

Recovery and Results

Because the procedure is minimally invasive, most patients go home the same day. Afterward, you may experience:

• Mild soreness or bruising at the catheter site
• Gradual relief of pain and swelling over several days
• Improved fertility in many cases within months after treatment
• Most patients are able to return to work or normal activities within 24 to 48 hours.

Why Choose Cooper for Varicocele Embolization?

Cooper University Health Care is a regional leader in interventional radiology, providing patients access to the latest image-guided treatments that offer safe, effective alternatives to surgery.