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Percutaneous retrograde varicocele embolisation using tungsten embolisation coils: a five year audit
S R Keoghane1, L Jones, M P Wright
1Department of Radiology, Bristol Royal Infirmary, UK.
International Urology and Nephrology
|September 17, 2002
Summary
Percutaneous retrograde varicocele embolisation achieved a 94% technical success rate. Recurrence was mainly linked to complex venous anatomy, highlighting its importance in treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Interventional Radiology
- Vascular Surgery
- Urology
Background:
- Varicocele, a common cause of male infertility, is often treated with embolisation.
- Percutaneous retrograde embolisation is a minimally invasive treatment option for varicoceles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the five-year efficacy of percutaneous retrograde varicocele embolisation using Spirale tungsten coils.
- To assess technical success, recurrence rates, and patient morbidity associated with the procedure.
Main Methods:
- Fifty patients underwent embolisation under local anaesthesia via a right femoral vein approach.
- Venous anatomy was meticulously identified and classified.
- Clinical follow-up at three months recorded morbidity and recurrence.
Main Results:
- Technical success was achieved in 94% of cases.
- Varicocele recurrence was observed in 16% of patients, predominantly those with complex venous anatomy.
- A low morbidity rate of 8% was reported, with patients experiencing discomfort.
Conclusions:
- Percutaneous retrograde varicocele embolisation demonstrates a high technical success rate.
- Complex venous anatomy is a significant factor contributing to treatment failure.
- While the specific coils used are no longer available, the technique's efficacy is established, particularly in managing straightforward venous patterns.