Varicocele Embolization

If you experience scrotum pain, swelling, or infertility because of a varicocele (enlarged vein in the scrotum) and need relief, schedule a consult with board-certified diagnostic and interventional radiologist Tate Kirk, MD, in White Plains, New York. Dr. Kirk offers cutting-edge, minimally-invasive varicocele embolization to improve your symptoms and reduce the risk of complications. Schedule an appointment by calling his office or using the online booking feature today. 

What is varicocele embolization?

A varicocele embolization is a medical procedure that Dr. Kirk performs to redirect blood flow away from an enlarged scrotum vein (varicocele). 

The scrotum is a sac containing blood vessels, testes, and part of the spermatic cord. Men with a varicocele have an abnormal enlargement of scrotum veins, caused by poorly functioning vein valves.

Which symptoms can varicocele embolization address?

Without treatment, a varicocele can lead to:

• Infertility
• Swelling
• Slow testicular growth in teenagers
• Pain

During varicocele embolization, Dr. Kirk injects a specialized material or coil to block the affected vein and reduce symptoms.

Who may be a candidate for varicocele embolization?

Dr. Kirk completes a medical evaluation to learn if a varicocele embolization is right for you. He reviews your medical history, lifestyle, and symptoms, and may order a scrotum ultrasound. Some men choose varicocele embolization to ease symptoms, while others desire this procedure to improve fertility. 

Surgery is another option for treating a varicocele, but varicocele embolization has similar success rates with much shorter recovery times.

How should I prepare for a varicocele embolization?

Follow Dr. Kirk’s instructions to prepare for varicocele embolization. Tell him about any medications or supplements you take, as well as any allergies. Don’t smoke and avoid food and drinks the morning of your procedure. Arrange for someone to drive you home afterward.

What can I expect during varicocele embolization?

Varicocele embolization may last for around 1 hour. You receive medication that helps you feel sleepy. Dr. Kirk administers numbing medication in the inner part of your upper thigh so that you won’t feel any discomfort. 

He cleans the area, places a needle in your inner thigh to access a vein, and inserts a catheter (thin tube). He will then inject a dye that creates clearer X-ray images of your veins. Dr. Kirk injects a liquid or a coil into the abnormal vein, blocking it and redirecting blood flow to nearby healthy veins. He then removes the catheter and places a bandage over the area.

What happens after varicocele embolization procedures?

You can go home the same day as varicocele embolization, but take it easy and avoid making important decisions the rest of the day. Don’t participate in strenuous activities until Dr. Kirk gives the okay. 

Your pain may subside soon after varicocele embolization. Call Dr. Kirk at any time with questions. 

Schedule an evaluation with Tate Kirk, MD, by phone or request one online today to find if you’re a candidate for varicocele embolization.