ABSTRACT
Therapeutic embolization of the gonadal veins is performed on male and female patients for different clinical situations using similar techniques. The testicular varicocele is a common clinical problem associated with pain and reduced fertility rates. In women, chronic pelvic pain can be attributed to pelvic congestion syndrome, which is said to result from retrograde flow in incompetent ovarian veins. Both of these clinical problems respond well to gonadal vein embolization. In this article, we review the clinical evaluation, diagnostic workup, and technical aspects of percutaneous intervention of gonadal vein embolization. The supporting literature is also reviewed.
KEYWORDS
Gonadal vein embolization - varicocele - pelvic congestion syndrome - interventional radiology
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Mark A BittlesM.D.
Vanderbilt Children's Hospital, Radiology, 2200 Children's Way
Room 1418, Nashville, TN 37232-9700
eMail: markbittles@vanderbilt.edu
