Varicocele is one of the most common diseases affecting the male reproductive system. It is in an abnormal dilatation of the veins of the testis, more frequent in young people, especially in those who lead an active life.
As Dr. Marco Tramarin, specialist in Interventional Radiology at Humanitas explains: “Those who suffer from it feel discomfort and heaviness in the pelvic area and, although varicocele is not a serious condition, it is good to recognize it and treat it in time, in order to avoid the risk of infertility. Up to 95% of patients with varicocele have spermatogenesis changes.
Traditional surgical treatment has now been accompanied by a mini-invasive endovascular approach: embolization, performed by an interventional radiologist,” says the specialist.
From traditional surgery to embolization
“Embolization is a safe and painless procedure that is performed in outpatient settings. The interventional radiologist punctures the femoral vein and thus inserts a catheter, thanks to which it “navigates” to the diseased vein and through which embolization agents are introduced that allow the closure of the pathological vessel. The procedure is conducted under radiological control.
Humanitas is one of the very few centers that uses a special glue for this procedure, which has proved particularly effective in selected cases “, says Dr. Tramarin.
Great effectiveness and absence of complications
“Embolization is effective in 98% of cases and does not present significant complications, thus avoiding traditional surgical treatment. It is indicated for patients with high-grade varicocele (III and IV grade). The indication is placed after an interventional radiology examination, including targeted ultrasound evaluation.
The procedure usually takes 30-40 minutes and does not require hospitalization. After the surgery the patient remains under observation for a few hours, after which he can return to his activities immediately”, concludes Dr. Tramarin.
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