Varicocele embolization (click for arabic)
What is Varicocele Embolization?
Varicocele embolization is a procedure that is used to treat varicoceles, which are enlarged veins in the scrotum. The procedure involves the insertion of a small catheter into a vein in the groin or neck, which is then threaded up to the affected area. Once the catheter is in place, a small coil or other type of blocking agent is released into the vein, causing it to clot and shrink. The purpose of varicocele embolization is to reduce the size and severity of the varicocele, which can help to alleviate pain and discomfort, as well as improve fertility in some cases. The procedure is generally considered to be safe and effective, with minimal side effects and a relatively short recovery time.
How Does Varicocele Embolization Work?
Varicocele embolization works by blocking off the affected vein, which reduces the flow of blood to the varicocele. This, in turn, causes the varicocele to shrink and eventually disappear. The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis, which means that patients are able to go home the same day. The first step in the procedure is to numb the area where the catheter will be inserted. This is typically done using a local anesthetic, which is injected into the skin near the groin or neck. Once the area is numb, a small incision is made, and the catheter is inserted into the vein. The catheter is then guided up to the affected area using X-ray imaging. Once the catheter is in place, a small coil or other type of blocking agent is released into the vein, which causes it to clot and shrink. This process may be repeated several times, depending on the size and severity of the varicocele. After the procedure is complete, the catheter is removed, and the incision is closed with stitches or adhesive strips. Patients are typically able to go home within a few hours and can resume normal activities within a few days.
Who is a Good Candidate for Varicocele Embolization?
Varicocele embolization is typically recommended for men who are experiencing pain or discomfort as a result of a varicocele. The procedure may also be recommended for men who are experiencing fertility problems, as varicoceles can interfere with sperm production and motility.
Before undergoing varicocele embolization, patients will need to undergo a physical examination and may need to undergo imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or MRI. This will help to determine the severity of the varicocele and whether or not the patient is a good candidate for the procedure.
Patients who have severe varicoceles or who have other medical conditions that make them unsuitable for the procedure may need to consider alternative treatments, such as surgery or medication.
What are the Benefits of Varicocele Embolization?
Varicocele embolization offers a number of benefits over other treatments for varicoceles. Some of the main benefits include:
Minimally invasive: Varicocele embolization is a minimally invasive procedure, which means that it is less invasive than surgery and does not require a long recovery time.
High success rate: The success rate of varicocele embolization is generally quite high, with most patients experiencing significant improvement in their symptoms and quality of life.
Short recovery time: Because varicocele embolization is a minimally invasive procedure, patients typically experience a shorter recovery time than they would with surgery. Most patients are able to resume normal activities within a few days of the procedure.
Improved fertility: Varicoceles can interfere with sperm production and motility, which can lead to fertility problems in men. Varicocele embolization can help to improve sperm count and motility, which can increase the chances of conception.
Reduced risk of complications: Varicocele embolization carries a lower risk of complications than surgery, such as infection and bleeding.
What are the Risks and Side Effects of Varicocele Embolization?
As with any medical procedure, there are risks and side effects associated with varicocele embolization. Some of the most common risks and side effects include:
Pain and discomfort: Patients may experience pain or discomfort in the area where the catheter was inserted, as well as in the scrotum.
Swelling and bruising: Swelling and bruising are common side effects of varicocele embolization, and can last for several days after the procedure.
Infection: There is a small risk of infection associated with varicocele embolization, although this is rare.
Allergic reaction: Some patients may have an allergic reaction to the contrast dye that is used during the procedure.
Recurrence: In some cases, varicoceles may recur after embolization. However, the risk of recurrence is generally low.
It is important to discuss the risks and potential complications of varicocele embolization with your healthcare provider before undergoing the procedure.
What to Expect Before, During, and After Varicocele Embolization
Before the procedure:
Before undergoing varicocele embolization, patients will need to undergo a physical examination and may need to undergo imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or MRI. Patients may also need to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, before the procedure.
During the procedure:
During the procedure, patients will receive a local anesthetic to numb the area where the catheter will be inserted. Once the area is numb, a small incision is made, and the catheter is inserted into the vein. The catheter is then guided up to the affected area using X-ray imaging. Once the catheter is in place, a small coil or other type of blocking agent is released into the vein, which causes it to clot and shrink.
After the procedure:
After the procedure, patients will need to rest for several hours before being discharged. Patients may experience pain, swelling, and bruising in the area where the catheter was inserted, as well as in the scrotum. Patients will need to avoid strenuous activity for several days after the procedure and may need to wear a supportive garment to help reduce swelling.
Patients should follow any instructions provided by their healthcare provider regarding pain management, wound care, and follow-up appointments. Patients should also report any symptoms of infection, such as fever or redness at the incision site, to their healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Varicocele embolization is a safe and effective procedure for treating varicoceles, which can cause pain, discomfort, and fertility problems in men. The procedure is minimally invasive, with a high success rate and a short recovery time. While there are risks and side effects associated with varicocele embolization, these are generally rare and can be minimized by choosing an experienced healthcare provider. If you are experiencing symptoms of a varicocele, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider about the best treatment options for you.
Varicoceles are abnormal dilations of the veins that drain the testicle, which can cause pain, discomfort, and fertility problems in men. Surgical ligation has been the traditional treatment for varicoceles, but varicocele embolization is becoming increasingly popular due to its advantages over surgery. Varicocele embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that involves blocking the abnormal veins using a catheter and a substance such as coils or sclerosing agents.
Why Choose Our Center for Interventional Radiology?
Choosing the right center for an interventional radiology procedure is one of the most important decisions you will make for your health.
Beyond the technique itself, who performs the procedure, where it is performed, and how it is planned directly influence safety, success, and long-term outcomes.
At our center, we are committed to academic excellence, ethical medical practice, and truly patient-centered care.
1. Treatment Performed by an Internationally Recognized Academic Expert
All procedures are personally performed by Prof. Dr. Fahrettin Küçükay,
an internationally recognized Professor of Interventional Radiology with extensive experience in advanced and complex minimally invasive treatments.
His background includes:
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Many years of high-volume clinical experience
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International scientific publications and academic contributions
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Guideline-based, evidence-driven medical practice
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Referral experience for complex and high-risk cases
In interventional radiology, outcomes are highly operator-dependent.
The same procedure can yield very different results depending on the physician’s expertise, judgment, and experience.
2. A Trusted Academic Referral Center
All treatments are performed at Eskişehir Osmangazi University Faculty of Medicine,
a well-established university hospital and academic referral center.
This setting provides:
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Multidisciplinary collaboration when required
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Advanced imaging and patient monitoring facilities
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Full compliance with international medical standards
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An infrastructure designed for complex medical decision-making, not routine shortcuts
Academic centers differ fundamentally from small private clinics in terms of safety, oversight, and clinical depth.
3. Highest Standards in Medical Materials and Technology
We strictly use:
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Original, brand-name medical devices
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Single-use, disposable materials only
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Products from internationally recognized manufacturers
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Advanced angiography and imaging systems
In interventional radiology, material quality directly affects:
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Procedural safety
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Technical success
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Complication risk
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Long-term outcomes
We never compromise quality for cost reduction.
4. Personalized, Patient-Specific Treatment Planning
Every patient is evaluated individually.
There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach.
Treatment planning is based on:
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Individual anatomy
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Disease characteristics
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Previous treatments
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Overall health status
We clearly explain:
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Who is an appropriate candidate
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Who may not benefit from the procedure
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Expected outcomes and realistic limitations
We believe that transparent and honest medicine builds long-term trust.
5. What Our Pricing Reflects
Our pricing represents a comprehensive medical service, not merely a technical procedure.
It includes:
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Expert medical evaluation and decision-making
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Treatment performed by a senior academic specialist
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High-quality materials and advanced technology
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Hospital care and post-procedure monitoring
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Medical reports and documentation in English
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Post-treatment follow-up and continued availability for questions
Our approach prioritizes safety, expertise, and ethical medical practice.
6. Understanding Treatment Costs and Comparisons
We recognize that patients may encounter different price offers across countries and centers.
However, in medicine—especially in technically demanding minimally invasive procedures—cost must always be evaluated together with experience, safety, and long-term results.
Lower prices may reflect differences in:
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Physician experience
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Hospital infrastructure
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Quality of materials
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Patient selection and follow-up standards
Our goal is not to be the cheapest option, but to be a reliable, evidence-based, and trusted choice.
7. Our Commitment to Patients
Responsible medicine does not promise guaranteed results.
Instead, we commit to:
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Honest medical evaluation
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Evidence-based treatment decisions
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The highest safety standards
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Respect for every patient as an individual
Many international patients choose our center because they value experience, transparency, and peace of mind.
8. Why Turkey and Why Eskişehir?
Why Turkey?
Turkey is a leading destination for international patients due to its:
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Advanced medical infrastructure
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Highly trained academic physicians
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Evidence-based healthcare systems
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European-level medical quality with excellent accessibility and value
Why Eskişehir?
Eskişehir offers a unique advantage for recovery:
a safe, calm, and patient-friendly city.
Compared to crowded metropolitan areas, Eskişehir provides:
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A peaceful, low-stress environment
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Easy transportation and short travel distances
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A clean, modern, and well-organized city structure
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Rich cultural life without congestion or crowds
This combination allows patients to receive high-level academic medical care while recovering in a comfortable, human-scale, and welcoming environment.
Contact & Further Information
If you would like a personalized evaluation or wish to share medical reports or imaging studies, we encourage you to contact us.
Our team will guide you professionally, transparently, and respectfully.