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Evaluate
We confirm the varicocele and understand why treatment is being considered.
All treatments
A minimally invasive alternative to varicocele surgery
Varicocele Embolization Treatment in Los Angeles
Varicocele embolization uses a small catheter to close abnormal gonadal veins that contribute to enlarged scrotal veins, allowing blood to reroute through healthier pathways.
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Varicocele Symptoms, Scrotal Discomfort and Fertility Concerns
A varicocele is a group of enlarged veins around the testicle. For some people it causes aching or heaviness; for others it is found during a fertility assessment. Embolization treats the abnormal veins without an open scrotal incision.
Symptoms and concerns we help with
- Persistent scrotal discomfort or heaviness
- Enlarged veins that can be felt around the testicle
- Fertility concerns alongside enlarged veins
- Recurrence after prior treatment
- A desire to discuss a nonsurgical option
- Ultrasound findings that require specialist interpretation
How Varicocele Embolization Treats Enlarged Scrotal Veins
How embolization works
A catheter is guided through the veins to the abnormal drainage pathway. Coils or another selected agent close the affected vein so blood can flow through other routes.
Deciding whether to treat
Not every varicocele needs treatment. Symptoms, ultrasound findings, and fertility goals help guide the discussion with interventional radiology and urology.
Personalized Varicocele Embolization Treatment Planning
- No scrotal surgical incision
- Local anesthesia and sedation in many cases
- Treatment through a small venous access site
- Useful for selected recurrent varicoceles
- Coordination with urology or fertility specialists when needed
What we review at your consultation
We review your symptoms, an examination, and scrotal ultrasound. If fertility is a concern, semen testing and your urologist’s advice may also help guide treatment. A varicocele that appears suddenly or only on the right side may need further tests to understand its cause.
Your care pathway
What to Expect From Your Varicocele Evaluation and Procedure
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Map
X-ray imaging with contrast shows the affected vein and the other veins draining the area.
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Close
Coils, sclerosant, or other agents close selected abnormal veins.
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Follow
Symptoms and any fertility-related goals are reassessed over time.
Recovery and Follow-Up After Varicocele Embolization
Most patients return home the same day. Mild access-site soreness or scrotal discomfort may occur temporarily. Return to work, exercise, and sexual activity is guided by the treating clinician.
Common questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Varicocele Treatment
Does every varicocele need treatment?
No. Treatment is generally considered when a varicocele is associated with ongoing pain, changes in testicle size, or fertility concerns.
How is embolization different from surgery?
Embolization reaches the abnormal vein from inside the vascular system through a small access site rather than through a scrotal or groin incision.
Can embolization be used after previous surgery?
It may be considered for some recurrent varicoceles. Imaging and venography help define the venous pathways before treatment.
Related care
Related Embolization and Vein Treatments
Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE)
PAE is a nonsurgical, image-guided treatment that reduces blood flow to an enlarged prostate so it can gradually shrink, with the goal of improving urinary symptoms caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS)
Pelvic congestion syndrome can develop when blood pools in enlarged veins in the pelvis, causing ongoing pain or heaviness. Treatment closes the affected veins so blood can return through healthier routes.
Clinical education sources
Schedule a Varicocele Consultation in Los Angeles
Meet with our team to discuss your symptoms, review your records, and understand your treatment options.