Are you struggling with infertility as a result of varicocele? You're not alone. According to MedicalNewsToday, Varicocele affects 10 to 15 percent of men. It is the most commonly identifiable factor associated with male infertility. 

A Varicocele is a swelling formed due to the enlargement of veins inside the scrotum. It interferes with the body's ability to make and store sperm, which results in infertility. Fortunately, male infertility can be treated with the help of Varicocele embolization. In this comprehensive guide, we'll look at the varicocele embolization procedure and why it may be the right choice for you.

Varicocele Embolization vs. Surgery 

Varicocele embolization is a less invasive procedure that uses advanced technology to place tiny coils in a blood vessel to divert blood from the varicocele. In Conventional surgery, an incision is made into the upper scrotum to find the veins and tie them off to stop blood flow. It also requires anaesthesia to be administered before surgery.

Here are some of the comparison points between the two methods:

• Complexity: varicocele embolization is a less complex procedure because it uses advanced technology for embolization. Similar to this is endovascular aortic repair, wherein the bulging area in the aorta wall is repaired. On the other hand, conventional surgery requires the identification of the exact veins and tying them off.
• Success Rate: According to Azura Vascular Care, embolization procedures have a 90% long-term success rate. On the other hand, in conventional surgery, one out of 10 men has a post-surgery recurrence of a varicocele, indicating that it is not that successful.
• Recovery time: The recovery time in varicocele embolization is 1-2 days, whereas, in surgery, it requires 2-3 weeks for the patient to recover.

 How Varicocele Embolization Works? 

A minimally invasive method used to treat varicoceles is varicocele embolization.

• It entails putting a catheter into a vein in the neck or groin and directing it to the varicocele.
• The afflicted vein is then made to shut down by injecting a tiny coil or other embolic substance into the catheter to impede blood flow.
• The treatment usually takes less than an hour and is done as an outpatient.
• To treat varicoceles, embolization procedure is a secure and reliable alternative to surgery.
• It is pretty effective at reducing symptoms like pain and infertility.
• Compared to surgical methods, it has a lower risk of complications and requires less time for recovery.
• Patients can typically resume their regular activities within a day or two after the treatment.
• The procedure for varicocele embolization is usually carried out by an interventional radiologist or another doctor with specialized training.
• As with any medical operation, varicocele embolization has some hazards, but they are typically minimal and can be reduced by selecting a skilled and experienced doctor.

Benefits of Varicocele Embolization for Male Fertility

Varicocele embolization has been shown to have several benefits for male fertility, some of them are:

• Studies have found that men who underwent embolization had a significant increase in total sperm count and motility and a decrease in the number of abnormally shaped sperm.
• Varicocele embolization procedure is associated with a lower complication risk than surgical options, such as varicocelectomy. 
• Embolization can often be performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can return home the same day.
• There is a 90% chance of success in embolization compared to other surgical procedures. 
• The recovery time in varicocele embolization is 1-2 days, with no severe discomfort.

What to Expect During Varicocele Embolization? 

If you're considering varicocele embolization as a treatment for male infertility, it's natural to have questions about what to expect during the procedure. Here's a list of parameters to keep in mind: 

• You must adhere to your doctor's detailed instructions for how to get ready for the treatment. Fasting before the procedure or taking a sedative are two examples of this.
• Local anaesthetic is commonly used to numb the area where the catheter will be put during varicocele embolization. You might occasionally receive sedatives to unwind.
• Using imaging guidance techniques like fluoroscopy or ultrasound, the interventional radiologist will implant a catheter into a vein in your neck or groin.
• The interventional radiologist will inject a tiny coil or other embolic substance through the catheter and into the troubled vein, stopping the blood flow and causing the vein to shut.
• You will constantly be watched throughout the process to ensure no issues.
• Following the procedure, you will be transported to a recovery area where you will be watched briefly before being let go.
• Normally, you can leave the hospital and go home the same day. As you might still be feeling the effects of the sedative or anaesthesia, you should make arrangements for someone to drive you home.
• To track your development and ensure the varicocele has been successfully treated, your doctor will arrange a follow-up session.

Recovery and Aftercare

Pay close attention to your doctor's recommendations to achieve a quick recovery following varicocele embolization. Following are some general recommendations for recovery and aftercare:

• Rest: For the first few days following the surgery, you should rest and refrain from heavy exercise. Most patients can resume their jobs and regular routines in a few days.
• Pain relief: You could feel discomfort or pain in the treated area. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help. To control discomfort and avoid infection, your doctor might also recommend medication.
• Ice packs: Applying ice packs to the area that has been treated can assist in lessening pain and swelling.
• Support: Jockey straps or supportive underwear can help ease pain and support the treated region.
• Follow-up: To track your development and ensure the varicocele has been successfully treated, your doctor will arrange a follow-up session.
• Sexuality activity: Avoid ejaculating and engaging in sexual activity for at least a week following the surgery.
• Exercise and lifting: You should refrain from vigorous exercise and heavy lifting for at least a week following the surgery.
• Driving is not advised for the first 24 hours following the treatment, as you may feel lightheaded or uncomfortable.
• Hygiene: For at least a week following the procedure, avoid soaking in bathtubs or swimming pools and keep the treated region clean and dry.

Conclusion  

Varicocele embolization is a minimally invasive and effective treatment option for improving male fertility. Several studies have found that men who undergo embolization before assisted reproductive technologies (ART), such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), have higher pregnancy rates and a lower risk of miscarriage. If you know anybody experiencing male infertility due to varicoceles, we recommend contacting the urology department and consulting with Dr. ABCD. One should remember that early detection and treatment can significantly improve your chances of recovery and lead to a better life. The Varicocele embolization procedure is a safe and effective option that could help you achieve your goal of starting or growing your family.