[Embolization of varicocele with ethanol].

Embolization with ethanol was performed in 40 varicocele patients to prevent recurrence due to collateral formation. A prescribed amount of ethanol (0.5-4 ml) was injected slowly into the testicular vein with the catheter tip as close as possible to the inguinal region. Embolization with stainless steel coils was also performed in 15 of the 40 patients. Immediately after embolization, three varicoceles were reduced in size, and 37 disappeared. Recurrence was recognized in only two patients. These patients were embolized at a proximal site above lumbar vertebra IV. Spermatic data have improved for 13 patients but not for one azoospermatic patient. Serious complications were recognized in only one patient, who received an injection of 15 ml ethanol in one dose. Therefore, we conclude that embolization with ethanol is an useful treatment for varicocele.