Varicocele Embolization

What is Varicocele Embolization?

A varicocele is an enlargement of the veins within the scrotum. These veins transport oxygen-depleted blood from the testicles. When a varicocele occurs, blood pools in the veins rather than efficiently circulating out of the scrotum, often resulting in pain and discomfort. 

For men with varicoceles, there are two treatment options: varicocele ligation surgery or embolization. The surgical procedure involves an open incision above the scrotum, general anesthesia, and a lengthy recovery period, whereas embolization is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that requires only a tiny cut in the skin, “twilight” sedation, and almost no downtime. Our South Florida endovascular physicians are experts when it comes to treating varicoceles without surgery.

There are many advantages to varicocele embolization including:

• It is performed under local anesthesia with mild sedation.
• It is performed on an outpatient basis in our office endovascular suite, not in a hospital.
• There is no surgical incision in the groin, only a tiny hole in the skin where a catheter is placed.
• A patient with varicoceles on both testicles can have both addressed at the same time through one vein puncture site (surgery requires two separate incisions).
• It is as effective as surgery, as measured by improvement in pain, semen analysis, and pregnancy rates.
• There is a lower rate of complications compared to surgery; infection has not been reported after embolization.

“Dr. Julien and his people are the most cohesive, personable and professional I’ve ever come across. From the time I walk in to when I leave I feel like they care about me. The result is good healing.”

– James R.

“Dr. Julien and his people are the most cohesive, personable and professional I’ve ever come across. From the time I walk in to when I leave I feel like they care about me. The result is good healing.”

– Josh R.

“Staff is awesome! Extremely knowledgeable & professional. They explained every step to me and spent plenty of time to answer my questions.”

– Anthony P.

“I was referred to Dr. W. Julian by my PCP and very happy that I was. Dr. Julian found a clogged artery that could have been life threatening if left untreated. My experience from consult to discharge was met courtesy, warmth and professionalism which helped me through my procedure. Sean greeted me and my son who explained the whole process and what to expect. I was also looked after by Josh, Jackie and Reuben who could not have been more supportive or communicative through this adventure.”

– Lorette K.

“The whole staff were very professional and very helpful in navigating me through every procedure, treatments and follow ups. I would certainly recommend South Florida Vascular Associates.”

– Don S.

“I have been very impressed by the way this office functions. Each and every person I’ve encountered has been very personable and professional. I’ve had minimal wait times before being seen. The tests I’ve had were done efficiently and results explained to me quickly. I would highly recommend this office.”

– Robert G.

“All of the staff were friendly, courteous, and professional. Examination and consultation were thorough and expedited in a timely manner. I felt relaxed throughout the visit and all my medical questions and concerns were met and answered to my satisfaction. Would recommend this office to anyone seeking vascular care.”

– Felix G.

“I highly recommend this office for any vascular procedure you may need. The staff are awesome. They were very considerate and professional. My procedures were all a success and I am very happy with the end result. Top marks on everything.”

– Todd H.

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Who is a Candidate for Varicocele Embolization?

Men with varicoceles which cause pain and swelling may be able to benefit from this procedure. To learn more about candidacy and if this procedure is right for you, please schedule a consultation with your provider.

The Varicocele Embolization Procedure

To begin varicocele embolization, the treatment area is numbed to ensure your comfort. A small tube is inserted into the femoral vein in the groin or a neck vein through a very small incision in the skin (about the size of the lead in a pencil).

Next, a small, thin tube called a catheter is painlessly guided using X-ray imaging into the abdomen and the varicocele vein. The vein is intentionally closed off by plugging it with small metal coils and a special medication (the same medication injected into leg varicose veins). The embolization procedure takes about 30 minutes to complete.

Providers

William Julien, MD

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Board-Certified Vascular Interventional Physician

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Mana Khatkar, PA-C

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Certified Physician Assistant

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Anissa Rodriguez, NP-C

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Certified Nurse Practitioner

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Varicocele Embolization Aftercare

Because varicocele embolization is an outpatient procedure, you will be able to return home a few hours later. You can immediately resume your non-exertional activities. Your physician will provide you with more in-depth aftercare instructions.

Schedule a Consultation

To learn more about varicocele embolization, contact our offices conveniently serving the greater Southeast Florida region. We’re located in Coconut Creek, Boynton Beach, and Plantation, FL, and provide advanced vascular and interventional oncology treatments performed on an outpatient basis.