Varicocele is abnormal enlargement of the veins inside the scrotum caused by dysfunctional valves in the veins of the abdomen and pelvis. Veins are low pressure blood vessels (unlike arteries) and require well-functioning valves to maintain forward flow. Varicoceles are also common, effecting 10 -15% of men, usually arising in puberty and early adulthood. Symptoms of varicocele include pain, scrotal swelling, decreased sperm count and sperm motility, which in turn can lead to decreased fertility. Sometimes the testicle on the affected side can start to shrink.

Varicoceles can be treated by conservative measures, open surgery, or by blocking off abnormal veins causing the varicocele (embolization).

Embolization uses ultrasound and X-ray guidance to painlessly move a small plastic tube through a tiny hole in the skin in the neck or groin. After navigating the tube to the site of abnormality, the abnormal blood vessels can be blocked by injecting small metal coils or foam through the tube. The patient can return to normal activity the next day.

By treating the abnormal draining vein, normal veins which are dormant are recruited to drain the testicle. This in turn decreases the size of the veins in the scrotum and cures the varicocele.