Korean J Androl.  2007 Aug;25(2):68-71.

Early Experience of Percutaneous Coil Embolization of Internal Spermatic Vein for the Treatment of Varicocele

• Huh JS
• Kim SH
• Kim YJ

Abstract

PURPOSE: The most useful surgical procedure for varicocele is ligation of the internal spermatic veins at or above the internal inguinal ring. Percutaneous transfemoral platinum coil embolization of the internal spermatic vein is a minimally invasive technique as compared to traditional or laparoscopic surgery. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of percutaneous embolization for the treatment of varicocele.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
From January 2001 to December 2006, 28 patients affected by varicocele underwent percutaneous coil embolization through a transfemoral approach. We retrospectively assessed success rate, procedure time, and complications. All patients underwent follow-up with physical examination or Doppler ultrasound examination after the treatment.
RESULTS
Mean operative time was 40.4 minutes. No significant complications happened during or after the treatment. Coil embolization was successful in 27 out of 28 patients(96.43%).
CONCLUSIONS
Percutaneous coil embolization of varicocele appears to be a safe, effective, inexpensive, and minimally invasive procedure. It should be considered as a possible first therapeutic option for the treatment of varicocele.

Keyword

Varicocele; Embolization

MeSH Terms

Embolization, Therapeutic*
Follow-Up Studies
Humans
Inguinal Canal
Laparoscopy
Ligation
Operative Time
Physical Examination
Platinum
Retrospective Studies
Ultrasonography
Varicocele*
Veins*
Platinum