Varicocele Embolization

Varicocele embolization is a minimally invasive treatment that utilizes the body’s anatomy to get to the abnormal veins without opening up the skin. This procedure is done in our outpatient center with twilight sedation. Absence of surgical incisions minimizes risks of infection and injury, allowing for a quick recovery.

Varicocele: What is the Cause

The scrotum contains the testicles and epididymis, the place where your sperm are made and stored. Testicular veins drain the used blood from the scrotum back to the heart and lungs, where it is re-oxygenated. This allows for proper storage and development of the sperm.

When the valves regulating blood flow in the testicular vein become defective, the blood backs up, and the veins become enlarged. Why is this an issue? This backed-up blood is used blood, which can cause pain and affect temperature regulation. The stagnant blood flow leads to swelling of the testicular veins, which can be detected during examination or ultrasound. Varicocele refers to the abnormal enlargement of the testicular veins in the abdomen and scrotum. You can experience pain, discomfort, testicular shrinkage, and infertility.

Symptoms of varicocele include:

Dull or Aching Pain in the Scrotum

You may feel a constant, dragging discomfort or aching pain, especially when standing for long periods or after physical activity.

Enlarged or Twisted Scrotal Veins

The veins in your scrotum may become visibly enlarged or feel like a soft “bag of worms” when touched.

Heaviness or Pressure in the Scrotum

A sense of fullness or pressure in the scrotal area, often worse at the end of the day or in hot weather.

Reduced Sperm Count or Quality

Varicocele can impact sperm production and function, leading to difficulty conceiving.

Testicular Shrinkage (Atrophy)

The affected testicle may shrink in size over time due to poor blood circulation and increased temperature.

What is Varicocele Embolization?

Varicocele embolization is a modern, non-surgical treatment for varicoceles—enlarged veins in the scrotum that can cause pain, swelling, and infertility. Unlike traditional surgery, embolization is done through a tiny incision, without stitches, and most patients go home the same day.

How It Works:

The procedure is performed by an interventional radiologist using real-time X-ray imaging. A small, thin tube (catheter) is inserted into a vein in your groin or neck and carefully guided to the abnormal testicular veins.

Once the catheter is in place, the doctor releases tiny coils and a special medical foam into the affected veins. These materials block blood flow in the faulty veins, stopping blood from backing up into the scrotum.

This forces the blood to reroute through healthy, normal veins, relieving pressure and improving circulation.

Benefits of Embolization:

Minimally invasive: No large incisions or general anesthesia required
Quick recovery: Most men return to normal activities within 1–2 days
Outpatient procedure: Done in a hospital or clinic with no overnight stay
Effective: Studies show high success rates in reducing pain and improving fertility

Once the abnormal blood flow is corrected, symptoms like discomfort, heaviness, and infertility often improve significantly. For many men, embolization offers a safe and effective alternative to surgery.

Testimonials

The Best Reference is a Good Word.

Our vein treatments have 5-star reviews. Don’t take our word for it, hear from those who’ve experienced life-changing relief from knee pain, leg issues, and varicose veins.

Alex D.

As a fitness instructor, I was very conscious of the varicose veins in my leg. The care I received from Dr. Amir Salem, MD and his team was outstanding. I felt welcomed and supported throughout my consultation and treatment.

Joshua G.

The assessment and treatment were excellent—virtually pain-free during and after. Dr. Amir Salem, MD and his team were professional, efficient, and friendly. Easily the best experience I’ve had with medical care!

Cynthia M.

My treatment went very well—both legs are healing and responding to follow-up care. The entire process has been nearly pain-free and has allowed for a quick recovery.

Maryam J.

Friendly staff, great bedside manner, and excellent treatment overall. Everything was smooth, quick, and informative. I felt cared for before and after the procedure. Highly recommended.

Sarai P.

The staff was incredibly helpful and patient. My procedure was completely pain-free, and I felt comfortable throughout. Every question I had was answered clearly—I highly recommend Dr. Amir Salem, MD and his team.

Mary H.

This office is warm and informative. Dr. Amir Salem, MD clearly cares about his patients and took the time to answer all my questions. I left feeling confident and reassured—looking forward to continuing care here.

Freedom From Pain. Restore Your Fertility. No Surgery Needed.

At Vein and Knee Pain Vascular Group, we specialize in non-surgical varicocele embolization. This safe and minimally invasive procedure effectively treats varicocele without the need for stitches, cutting, or general anesthesia. Our double-board-certified specialist has successfully performed over 1,000 varicocele embolizations and more than 5,000 image-guided procedures, helping men across New York restore comfort, confidence, and fertility.

Are You a Candidate for Embolization?

You may be eligible if you experience any of the following:

Scrotal pain or discomfort
Visibly enlarged or twisted scrotal veins
Shrinking of one or both testicles
Fertility issues (low sperm count or motility)
Adolescents with smaller testicles on one side

Note: Diagnosis is confirmed via ultrasound before treatment.

Schedule your Consultation to qualify Today!

Request an Appointment to meet with our varicocele specialist, who will review your imaging, laboratory results, and medical history to determine if you are a candidate for the procedure and discuss the outcomes you can expect.

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