Varicoceles can impact both your fertility and overall well-being. At Nuffield Vascular and Interventional Radiology (NVIR), our team offers personalised treatments designed to achieve your desired outcomes using innovative technologies and minimally invasive procedures.
Varicocele is a vascular condition affecting the veins in the scrotum, characterised by an abnormal cluster of enlarged and tangled veins located above the testicles. This occurs due to weak valves within the veins, which impair normal blood flow, leading to engorgement.
Varicoceles are relatively common, affecting approximately 1 in 5 males. They are most frequently found on the left side of the scrotum, although they can occur on both sides. Isolated cases of right-sided varicocele are rare and typically require detailed evaluation.
Varicocele is often asymptomatic in many individuals. However, in some cases, it may present as a noticeable swelling above the testicle.
For symptomatic patients, the condition may cause:
Varicoceles have also been linked to reduced sperm count and infertility in some cases.
The diagnosis of varicocele involves a clinical assessment followed by an ultrasound scan of the scrotum. For symptomatic patients, the ultrasound is typically performed in both lying down and standing positions to ensure a thorough evaluation.
There are three primary options for managing varicoceles:
Minimally Invasive Varicocele Embolisation: A modern, non-surgical treatment option.
Varicocele embolisation is a day procedure performed through a minimally invasive approach. The process involves accessing the veins in the groin (or occasionally the neck) using a tiny 2 mm needle mark under local anaesthesia or intravenous sedation, based on patient preference.
Using fluoroscopy for guidance, a small specialised tube, known as a catheter, is advanced through the veins to reach the varicocele within 15 minutes. The total procedure lasts approximately 45 minutes. Special coils and embolic agents are then injected into the abnormal veins to block blood flow to the varicocele.
This procedure is virtually pain-free, with no post-procedure discomfort. Patients can fully resume their normal activities within 2–3 days.
I’m here to help you regain control of your health. Together, we’ll manage your symptoms and prevent future complications using personalised care and innovative technology. – Dr Suresh Babu