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Treatment of Varicocele and Pelvic Congestion (Female Varicocele) Syndrome

Varicocele and pelvic congestion syndrome (female varicocele) are conditions that occur as a result of abnormal dilation of the veins and impaired blood flow. Both conditions can cause pain, swelling, and, over time, lead to serious health problems due to poor venous circulation. Interventional radiologists provide effective and rapid non-surgical solutions for the diagnosis and treatment of these disorders.

What is Varicocele?

  • Varicocele is a condition characterized by the enlargement of the veins surrounding the testicles and the abnormal accumulation of blood. This condition can cause infertility, pain, swelling, and sexual dysfunction in men. Varicocele is most commonly seen in the left testicle, although both testicles may be affected.

  • Symptoms of Varicocele:

  • Pain or discomfort in the testicles

  • Swelling and visible enlargement of veins

  • Sexual dysfunction

  • Infertility (reduced sperm production)

What is Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (Female Varicocele)?

  • Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS) is a condition that occurs when the veins in the pelvic (groin) area become dilated. These pelvic varicose veins disrupt normal blood flow in the region, leading to symptoms such as pelvic pain, varicose veins, and infertility. Also known as “female varicocele,” this condition may present with varicose veins in the legs, but the primary problem lies within the pelvic region.

  • Symptoms of Pelvic Congestion Syndrome:

  • Chronic pelvic pain (lasting longer than six months)

  • Increased pain during menstruation

  • Varicose veins in the legs and pelvic area

  • Pain during sexual intercourse

  • Urinary and bowel problems

  • Infertility

Varicocele and Pelvic Congestion Treatment

  • Interventional radiology offers effective and rapid solutions for the treatment of varicocele and pelvic congestion syndrome using minimally invasive techniques. Below are the treatment methods applied for both conditions:

  • 1. Embolization (Vessel Occlusion)

  • How It Is Performed:
    Interventional radiologists insert a thin catheter through the veins in the groin area and guide it into the veins supplying the varicose veins in the testes or the abnormal veins in the pelvic region. Once the catheter is advanced to the target site, special embolic (blocking) materials are injected to close off the abnormal veins. This prevents the pooling of blood in the groin by effectively disabling the problematic vessels.

  • Advantages:
    It is minimally invasive, allows for a quick recovery period, and does not require general anesthesia. Most patients can return to their normal daily activities the day after the procedure.

Advantages of Interventional Radiology

  • Minimally Invasive: No surgical intervention is required for patients. Treatment is provided through a catheter-based procedure.

  • Fast Recovery: After the procedure, patients can return to their normal activities within a few days.

  • Less Pain and Risk: General anesthesia is not required; the procedure is performed under local anesthesia. This accelerates the recovery process and reduces the risk of complications.

  • High Success Rate: Thanks to advanced imaging techniques, the treatment is performed in a targeted manner and provides a high success rate.

Early Diagnosis in Varicocele and Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

Varicocele and pelvic congestion syndrome can be treated with early diagnosis and can improve patients’ quality of life. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it is important to consult a specialist:

  • Pain or swelling in the testicles

  • Chronic pelvic pain (lasting more than 6 months)

  • Pain during sexual intercourse

  • Varicose veins in the legs or pelvic area

  • Severe pain during the menstrual cycle

  • Infertility problems

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