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Semin intervent Radiol 2022; 39(05): 490-497
DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1757939
Review Article

Varicoceles: Overview of Treatment from a Radiologic and Surgical Perspective

Helio V. Neves da Silva
1   Vascular and Interventional Radiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
,
Robert L. Meller
1   Vascular and Interventional Radiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
,
Eniola A. Ogundipe
1   Vascular and Interventional Radiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
,
Paul J. Rochon
2   Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Modern Vascular of Denver, Thornton, Colorado
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Abstract

A testicular varicocele is the result of the expansion of the venous pampiniform plexus of the scrotum. Often painless, a significant number of patients experience orchialgia, swelling, testicular atrophy, and abnormalities in spermatic parameters. Treatment of symptomatic varicocele involves a radiologic or surgical intervention to obstruct the reflux of venous drainage. Testicular anatomy, diagnostic evaluation and imaging, options for surgical intervention, and a step-by-step description of retrograde embolization and antegrade scrotal sclerotherapy are discussed. Furthermore, included is an overview of postprocedural management and patient outcomes for radiological interventions, and the most up-to-date evidence on the efficacy of varicocele treatments as well as how they compare to each other.

Keywords

varicocele - varicocelectomy - embolization - sclerotherapy - male fertility

Authors' Contributions

All authors contributed to the study's conception and design. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.


Ethics Approval

This review was deemed IRB exempt.




Publication History

Article published online:
20 December 2022

© 2022. Thieme. All rights reserved.

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