Neck or groin access for varicocele embolisation: Is it important?

Area of Science:

• Endovascular Surgery
• Interventional Radiology
• Urology

Background:

• Varicocele embolisation is an effective treatment for symptomatic scrotal varicosities.
• Assessing current practices and comparing them to international standards is crucial for optimizing patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the endovascular treatment of left-sided varicoceles at our institution.
• To compare institutional findings with international benchmarks.
• To determine if access site (groin vs. neck) impacts screening time and radiation dose.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 95 primary left-sided varicocele embolisations over four years.
• Evaluation of technical success, complication rates, and recurrence.
• Case-by-case analysis of anatomical factors influencing outcomes.

Main Results:

• Achieved a 98% technical success rate with a 6% recurrence rate over a mean follow-up of 34.3 months.
• Recurrence was linked to complex local anatomy (Type 3 and 4).
• Low complication rates (4.7% extravasation, 3.5% temporary pain); no significant difference in outcomes between groin and neck access.

Conclusions:

• Varicocele embolisation demonstrates high success and low complication rates.
• Both neck and groin access approaches are equally effective, with no significant differences in screening time or radiation exposure.