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Year: 2024

how long does prostate artery embolization last
24Jan

“Neend poori nahi hoti bar bar peshab ki vaja se ankh khul jaati hai”, is a common complaint of men in late age. This is one of the classical symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Interestingly, many individuals seek treatment for disrupted sleep only to discover that BPH is the underlying cause. As the name suggests, BPH is the excessive growth of the prostate.

In men, prostate cells consistently respond to testosterone, causing the prostate gland to expand throughout life. As a result, with age, the gland becomes enlarged to the point where it compresses the urethra that passes through it. Consequently, individuals may experience an increased urge to urinate, difficulty in passing urine, and a sense of fullness in the lower abdomen.

Medicine is the first choice of treatment for mild symptoms, but when the condition becomes troublesome and does not respond to medical therapy, surgery becomes the preferred solution. The conventional surgery for benign prostatic hyperplasia is transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). During TURP, a resectoscope is inserted through the urethra, allowing the surgeon to remove excess prostate tissue with an electrically heated wire loop. However, this procedure carries several risks, including bleeding, urinary incontinence, urinary tract infection, erectile dysfunction, stricture formation, and retrograde ejaculation.

In contrast to TURP, prostate artery embolization is an advanced, safe and a non-surgical technique. It is designed to alleviate the symptoms of BPH by reducing the blood supply to the prostate, leading to its shrinkage.

What is prostate artery embolization?

Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia. The duration of PAE can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the experience of the interventional radiologist, and the specific techniques employed during the procedure.

Preparation: Before the actual procedure, there will be some time for patient preparation, which includes obtaining medical history, performing any necessary imaging studies, and explaining the procedure to the patient. This phase can vary in duration but is usually relatively brief.

Anesthesia and Catheterization: The patient is then given local anesthesia and conscious sedation. Following this, a catheter is inserted, often through the femoral artery in the groin, and guided to the arteries supplying blood to the prostate. This step usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour.

Angiography: Contrast dye is injected, and X-ray imaging is used to visualize the blood vessels leading to the prostate. The angiography helps identify the specific arteries that need to be targeted for embolization. This step can take approximately 30 minutes to an hour.

Embolization: Once the arteries are identified, tiny particles (embolic agents) are injected through the catheter to block or reduce blood flow to the prostate, leading to its shrinkage. The embolization phase typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, but the time can vary depending on the complexity of the case.

Monitoring and Recovery: After the embolization is complete, the interventional radiologist monitors the patient for a period of time to ensure stability. The patient may spend some additional time in a recovery area. The total monitoring and prostate artery embolization recovery time can range from 1 to 2 hours.

Post-Procedure Care: After monitoring, the patient is typically observed for any immediate post-procedure complications. If everything is stable, the patient may be discharged on the same day or, in some cases, the following day.

Benefits:

Prostate Artery Embolization has shown several benefits as a minimally invasive alternative for the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Here are some of the key benefits associated with PAE:

Minimally Invasive: PAE is a less invasive procedure compared to traditional surgical treatments for BPH, such as TURP. It is performed through a small incision in the groin or wrist, reducing the need for major surgery and associated risks.

Shorter Recovery Time: Patients undergoing PAE typically experience a shorter recovery period compared to those undergoing traditional surgical interventions. Many patients can go home on the same day or the day after the procedure.

Preservation of Sexual Function: Unlike some surgical procedures for BPH, PAE has been associated with a lower risk of sexual side effects. This can be an important consideration for patients concerned about the impact of treatment on their sexual function.

Outpatient Procedure: PAE is often performed on an outpatient basis, meaning that patients do not need to stay overnight in the hospital. This contributes to a more convenient and less disruptive treatment experience.

Avoidance of General Anesthesia: PAE is typically performed under local anesthesia and conscious sedation, eliminating the need for general anesthesia in many cases. This can be advantageous, especially for patients who may not be suitable candidates for general anesthesia due to underlying health conditions.

Improvement in Urinary Symptoms: PAE has been shown to effectively reduce the symptoms associated with BPH, such as urinary frequency, urgency, weak stream, and difficulty initiating urination. It can lead to improved urinary flow and overall quality of life for patients.

Lower Risk of Bleeding and Infection: Since PAE is a minimally invasive procedure, the risk of bleeding and infection is generally lower compared to open surgical procedures. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with certain medical conditions or those at higher risk for complications.

Customized Treatment: PAE is a targeted procedure that allows for a more individualized approach. The interventional radiologist can tailor the treatment to the specific anatomy and characteristics of each patient’s prostate, potentially improving the precision and effectiveness of the intervention.

How long does prostate artery embolization last?

The benefits of the PAE procedure typically remain for a minimum of 3-4 years. According to a study PAE results in long-lasting relief from symptoms of BPH, with re-intervention rates of 20% within the initial 5 years and increasing to 30%-60% beyond 5 years following the procedure.

What are the side effects of prostate artery embolization?

Prostate artery embolization side effects are limited. As with any medical procedure, there are risks of complications, including bleeding, infection, and damage to surrounding structures. Some patients may experience transient symptoms such as pain, urinary retention, or difficulty urinating after the procedure.

With expert hands, these risks are further minimized. Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed is an interventional radiologist and endovascular surgeon with extensive experience in treating BPH using prostate artery embolization. His areas of expertise lie in minimally invasive procedures.

For further information email now at info@drimtiazahmad.com. Follow us on Instagram @Profdr_imtiaz_ahmad for daily updates.

which size of fibroid is dangerous
23Jan

Fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in the uterus, affecting millions of women worldwide. While most fibroids are benign and don’t cause noticeable symptoms, some can lead to complications, prompting the need for medical intervention. One crucial factor in assessing the risk associated with fibroids is their size.

Understanding Fibroids:

Fibroids are abnormal growths of muscle tissue in the uterus. They can vary in size, ranging from as small as a seed to as large as a grapefruit or more. Fibroids can develop inside the uterus, on its outer surface, or within the uterine wall. Although the exact cause of fibroids remains unclear, factors such as genetics, hormonal fluctuations, and pregnancy can contribute to their formation.

After diagnosing fibroids, the first thing a doctor discusses is the size of the fibroids. Why is the size of fibroids important to know? There are multiple reasons for it.

  • The course of treatment for fibroids depends on their size.
  • The location and size of fibroids are also crucial in predicting potential complications. For instance, there has been a reported case where emergency surgery was required for a woman with a large fibroid causing respiratory problems.
  • Additionally, the size of the fibroid can serve as an alarm for determining when treatment should be initiated. It plays a significant role in guiding healthcare professionals toward the most appropriate and timely interventions.

Assessing Fibroid Size:

The fibroid size chart varies globally, with different centers employing diverse methods to characterize uterine size. Physicians may measure fibroids in centimeters, categorizing them as small, medium, or large.

  • Small fibroid: Less than 3 cm in length (Comparable to the size of a pea or cherry)
  • Medium fibroid: 3 to 6 cm (Similar in size to a plum or large orange)
  • Large fibroid: 6 cm or more (Resembling the size of a grapefruit and beyond)

Some physicians define fibroid size based on obstetric weeks, where a small fibroid corresponds to the 4th obstetric week, a medium fibroid to weeks 10 to 11, and a large fibroid to weeks 12 to 16.

Which size of fibroid is dangerous in mm?

A common misconception is that the larger the fibroids, the more serious complications they will cause. However, it’s important to note that while larger fibroids can cause discomfort, they are not always guaranteed to pose problems. Similarly, a smaller fibroid doesn’t automatically signify any cause for concern. So, there is no straight forward answer to this question: which size of fibroid is dangerous.

How much does a 7 cm fibroid weigh?

While fibroids don’t directly cause weight gain, they contribute to overall body weight due to their mass. The weight of a 7 cm fibroid can vary, but generally, larger fibroids, including those over 6 cm, can weigh up to 25 pounds. Consequently, women with larger fibroids may experience heaviness in the lower abdomen and a protruding belly due to the presence of a substantial fibroid in the uterus.

When should you be concerned about fibroid size?

While many women with fibroids never experience any symptoms, the size of a fibroid can become a concern when it leads to the following issues:

Symptoms: Larger fibroids can cause symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, frequent urination, and backache. The size and location of the fibroid play a role in the severity of these symptoms.

Complications during Pregnancy: Depending on their size and location, fibroids can lead to complications during pregnancy and childbirth. Larger fibroids may obstruct the birth canal or interfere with the optimal positioning of the baby.

Impact on Fertility: In some cases, larger fibroids can affect fertility. They may block the fallopian tubes, interfere with the implantation of the embryo, or disrupt the blood flow to the uterus.

Degeneration: Larger fibroids are more prone to degeneration, a process in which the central part of the fibroid outgrows its blood supply, causing pain and sometimes requiring medical attention.

Rapid Growth: If a fibroid undergoes rapid growth, it may indicate malignancy, although fibroids are overwhelmingly benign. Any sudden increase in size should be thoroughly evaluated by a healthcare professional.

What is the solution?

The treatment of fibroids depends on the location and size of fibroids. Doctor can recommend one of the following:

Watchful Waiting:

Small, asymptomatic fibroids may not require immediate treatment. Regular monitoring through pelvic exams or imaging studies (ultrasound, MRI) can be done to track any changes.

Surgery:

For larger and heavier fibroids causing significant symptoms, surgery is often recommended. The two primary surgical options are myomectomy and hysterectomy.

Myomectomy is a uterus-saving procedure in which only the diseased part, typically the fibroids, is removed, leaving the rest of the uterus intact. On the other hand, hysterectomy involves the complete removal of the uterus. This procedure is considered more extensive, as it eliminates the entire uterus, preventing the possibility of future pregnancies.

The choice between myomectomy and hysterectomy depends on various factors, including the severity of symptoms, the desire for future fertility, and the overall health of the patient. This decision is typically made in consultation with the patient and their healthcare provider.

Uterine Artery Embolization:

This is a minimally invasive procedure initially used for the smaller fibroids but now also for the large ones. During the procedure, a catheter is guided through blood vessels to the uterine arteries, where small particles are injected to block blood flow to the fibroids. This process aims to reduce the size of the fibroids and alleviate associated symptoms, offering an alternative to surgical options.

Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed is the pioneer of this procedure in Pakistan. Email now at info@drimtiazahmad.com. Follow us on Instagram @Profdr_imtiaz_ahmad for daily updates.

adenomyosis causes
15Jan

Uterine adenomyosis is a medical condition that often goes undiagnosed due to its overlap of symptoms and similarities to other reproductive health issues. Lack of MRI facilities is one of the factors in under diagnosis of this crippling disease. This condition occurs when the tissue lining the uterus, called the endometrium, grows into the muscular walls of the uterus. While adenomyosis is not life-threatening, it can cause significant pain and discomfort with major impact on person’s quality of life.

Adenomyosis Causes:

The exact cause of adenomyosis of the uterus remains unclear. There are several theories about the etiology of this condition. The most commonly accepted one says that when the boundary between endometrium (the innermost layer of uterus) and myometrium (the middle layer of uterus) is disrupted a series of inappropriate cell proliferation happens. The endometrial cells start growing into the myometrium resulting in adenomyosis. Here are some risk factors for uterine adenomyosis that may disrupt the boundary between two layers.

Hormonal Influences:

Changes in hormonal levels, particularly an excess of estrogen relative to progesterone, are believed to play a role in the development of this disease. Estrogen promotes the growth of the endometrial tissue.

Inflammation:

Inflammation within the uterus may lead to the development of adenomyosis. This inflammation can cause a breakdown in the normal boundaries between the layers of the uterine wall.

Childbirth:

Women who have undergone multiple pregnancies and childbirths may have an increased risk of developing this condition. The stretching and contractions of the uterus during childbirth could contribute to the displacement of endometrial tissue.

Invasive Procedures:

Uterine surgeries, such as cesarean sections or fibroid removal, may increase the risk of adenomyosis. These procedures can disrupt the normal structure of the uterine walls.

Symptoms of Adenomyosis:

Adenomyosis often presents with symptoms that overlap with those of other reproductive health issues, making it challenging to diagnose. Common symptoms include:

Menstrual Pain:

Increased and prolonged menstrual cramps, often beginning before the period and lasting throughout its duration, are hallmark symptoms of adenomyosis.

Heavy Menstrual Bleeding:

Women with adenomyosis may experience heavier than usual menstrual bleeding, leading to anemia in some cases.

Pelvic Pain and Discomfort:

Persistent pelvic pain or a feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen may occur, especially during menstruation.

Painful Intercourse:

Adenomyosis can contribute to pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse.

Menstrual Irregularities:

Changes in menstrual patterns, such as irregular periods or spotting between periods, may be indicative of adenomyosis.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

Diagnosing adenomyosis can be challenging due to its nonspecific symptoms. However, healthcare providers may use a combination of medical history, physical examinations, imaging studies such as ultrasound (both abdominal and transvaginal) or MRI, and, in some cases, exploratory surgery to confirm the diagnosis.

The difference between a normal uterus vs adenomyosis ultrasound is the uterus appears globally enlarged and bulky. The walls are thicker and more heterogeneous in contrast to normal homogenous appearance. if the lesion is focal, there may be localized thickening. Sometimes the advanced disease can distort the shape of the uterus.

How is uterine adenomyosis treated?

Treatment options vary based on the severity of symptoms and the individual’s reproductive goals. Common approaches include:

Pain Management:

Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications may help manage pain associated with adenomyosis.

Hormonal Therapy:

Hormonal treatments, such as birth control pills or intrauterine devices containing hormones, may help regulate menstrual cycles and alleviate symptoms.

Surgery:

Sometimes when the medical treatment fails and the family is completed doctors may recommend surgery. This surgery requires removal of the uterus.

Dr Imtiaz Ahmed believes that the uterus is as necessary as any other organ of the body and should never be removed like an appendix, regardless of the family status. He introduced a minimally invasive nonsurgical procedure for treating adenomyosis in Pakistan. This procedure is called 3-D Precison Guided Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE).

UAE as the name indicates is an embolization of the vessel. The basic principle of this procedure is to cut off the blood supply to the lesion by embolizing. Once the disease is no longer receiving the blood, it dies. The procedure starts with a thorough evaluation of the lesion. Firstly, the patient is comforted by giving some sort of conscious sedation. Then a catheter is inserted through a small skin hole, usually in the groin, no skin incisions are given, small catheter is guided through the blood vessels to the uterine arteries. The embolizing material is then injected through the catheter into the uterine arteries. It blocks the blood flow to the areas affected by adenomyosis.

The progress of the procedure is monitored using 3-D imaging techniques including digital fluoroscopy, to ensure accurate delivery of embolic particles. After the embolization is completed, the catheter is removed, and hemostasis is achieved by applying gentle manual pressure or by applying a closure device. Patients are typically monitored overnight or for a few hours before being allowed to go home.

This procedure has several benefits when compared with the conventional hysterectomy. The symptoms alleviate quickly, no additional pain and trauma of the major surgery, conservation of the uterus and quick recovery time are some of the advantages of the UAE.

For more information about the non-invasive treatment of adenomyosis email us at info@drimtiazahmad.com. Follow us on Instagram @Profdr_imtiaz_ahmad for daily updates.

how to get pregnant with adenomyosis naturally
9Jan

Fertility struggles can be a challenging and emotional journey for many couples. Adenomyosis, a condition where the tissue lining the uterus starts to grow into the muscular wall, can further complicate the path to conception.

Does adenomyosis affect fertility?

Adenomyosis initiates when the natural boundary between the internal and middle layers of the uterus is disrupted, leading to the growth of endometrial tissue within the uterine walls. Individuals with this condition often encounter symptoms such as heavy periods, pain, and lower abdominal fullness. These symptoms can disrupt the normal conception process, making the implantation of the zygote challenging and compromising adequate uterine support for the developing fetus. Consequently, this heightened difficulty increases the risk of miscarriage and premature birth.

Infertility in adenomyosis

Adenomyosis presents certain symptoms that serve as potential indicators of infertility. The foremost and most important of these is experiencing a painful period. Pain serves as a sign of inflammation, and where inflammation occurs, scar tissue formation follows. The inflamed uterus poses a challenge for the easy implantation of a fertilized egg.

Another notable symptom of adenomyosis is heavy bleeding, often indicative of hormonal imbalance that significantly impacts physiological processes crucial for pregnancy. Additionally, the globally enlarged uterus, a consequence of the presence of endometrial tissue within the uterine wall, adversely affects normal implantation.

Risk Factors for Adenomyosis-Related Fertility Issues

Several factors increase the likelihood of adenomyosis affecting fertility. These are:

  • having a history of pelvic infections
  • endometriosis
  •  previous uterine surgery raises the risk
  •  multiple miscarriages
  • age 35 years or more

Certain lifestyle factors can contribute too. Smoking and having a high body mass index (BMI) may make it harder for women with adenomyosis to get pregnant or sustain a pregnancy.

It’s essential to understand that not all women with adenomyosis will experience fertility problems. For those who do, there are various treatment options, including medication, surgery, and assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF).

How to get pregnant with adenomyosis naturally?

Lifestyle Modifications:

Adenomyosis diet: Adopting a nutrient-rich, balanced diet is crucial for overall health and fertility. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in your daily meals. Antioxidant-rich foods such as berries, leafy greens, and nuts can help combat oxidative stress associated with adenomyosis.

Eating lots of fresh vegetables: Add more veggies in the diet, especially cruciferous ones like cauliflowers, radish, and turnips. These are rich in antioxidants, which fight inflammation caused by adenomyosis.

Don’t skip fruits: Despite concerns about sugar, fruits provide essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Berries, in particular, are excellent for their antioxidant properties. Include two servings of fruit daily for a healthy diet.

Include grains and carbs: Contrary to some advice, don’t cut out grains and carbs completely. They are essential for energy and meeting fiber needs. Opt for whole grains like brown rice, wholemeal pasta, and quinoa.

Incorporate healthy fat: Healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E, can help manage pain. Include foods like avocados, nuts, seeds, oily fish, and extra virgin olive oil in your diet.

Cut down on saturated fats and excess sugars: Research suggests that foods high in saturated fats can trigger inflammation. Minimize foods like butter, coconut oil products, ghee, fried items, and sugary treats to manage inflammatory responses associated with adenomyosis.

Maintain a Healthy Weight:

Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for fertility. Both underweight and overweight conditions can negatively impact reproductive function. Achieving a healthy BMI through regular exercise and a balanced diet can improve hormonal balance and enhance fertility.

Regular Exercise:

Engaging in regular physical activity is beneficial for fertility and overall well-being. Exercise helps regulate hormones, improve blood flow to the reproductive organs, and reduce stress. Opt for activities you enjoy, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, and aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

Adenomyosis treatment for fertility

The treatment approach for adenomyosis-related fertility problems may involve a combination of medical and surgical interventions. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice based on an individual’s specific situation. Here are some general treatment options:

Pain Management:

Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or naproxen may help manage pain associated with adenomyosis. Prescription medications, such as hormonal therapies, may be recommended by doctors to control pain and reduce inflammation.

Hormonal Therapies:

Hormonal treatments like birth control pills, hormonal IUDs (intrauterine devices), or progestin therapy may help regulate menstrual bleeding and reduce symptoms. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists may be prescribed to induce a temporary menopause-like state, suppressing estrogen production and reducing adenomyosis symptoms.

Fertility Treatments:

If adenomyosis is affecting fertility, fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be considered. IVF involves retrieving eggs, fertilizing them outside the body, and then transferring the embryos into the uterus.

Surgery:

In some cases, surgery may be recommended to remove adenomyosis-affected tissue. This can be done through a procedure called adenomyomectomy. In severe cases or when fertility is not a concern, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be considered.

3-D Precision Guided Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE):

3-D Precision Guided UAE is a minimally invasive procedure where tiny particles are injected into the blood vessels supplying the uterus, cutting off the blood flow to the adenomyosis-affected tissue.

Dr. Imtiaz Ahmad, an expert endovascular surgeon and interventional radiologist, is the pioneer of this procedure in Pakistan. With extensive experience in treating fertility issues in both males and females, he has played a crucial role in helping numerous couples realize their dream of starting a family. Dr. Ahmad is committed to the principle of utilizing minimally invasive technology in his practice, emphasizing a patient-centric approach to provide effective and compassionate care.

For further assistance email us at at info@drimtiazahmad.com. Follow us on Instagram @Profdr_imtiaz_ahmad for daily updates.

varicocele treatment without surgery
8Jan

A torturous mass above the testicles is a common finding in men. Many people, with little to no knowledge about genitalia, mistakenly believe this is a normal finding until the disease begins to manifest consequences.
Varicocele is a condition characterized by the enlargement of the veins within the scrotum, which is the pouch of skin containing the testicles. These veins are called the pampiniform plexus. Varicoceles are similar to varicose veins that occur in the legs. This pathology results from the malfunction of the valves within the veins that regulate blood flow to the testes. It affects about 10-15% of men.

Causes:

The exact cause of varicocele remains unclear but many factors can contribute:

Faulty Valves:

The veins in the spermatic cord, which carry blood to and from the testicles, have one-way valves that help regulate blood flow. If these valves become weak or fail to function properly, blood can pool in the veins, leading to their enlargement and the formation of a varicocele.

Anatomy:

The anatomy of the blood vessels in the spermatic cord may contribute to its development. The left testicular vein is longer and connects to the left renal vein at a right angle, making it more prone to increased pressure and backflow of blood.

Genetic Factors:

There may be a genetic component to the development of varicoceles.

Increased Intra-Abdominal Pressure:

Conditions that lead to increased pressure within the abdomen, such as chronic constipation, heavy lifting, or prolonged standing, may contribute to the development or worsening of varicoceles.

Unknown Causes:

In some cases, the exact cause of varicoceles remains unknown.

Symptoms:

Varicoceles often develop without causing noticeable symptoms, and some individuals may be unaware that they have this condition. When symptoms do occur, they can vary in intensity.

Pain or Discomfort:

A dull, aching pain or discomfort in the scrotum is a common symptom of varicoceles, more pronounced after standing for long periods.

Visible Enlargement:

The veins within the scrotum may become visibly enlarged or swollen, giving the appearance of a “bag of worms.” This is often more noticeable when standing.

Testicular Atrophy (Rare):

In some cases, particularly if the varicocele develops during adolescence, there may be a discrepancy in the size of the testicles. The affected testicle may be smaller than the other due to reduced blood flow and potential impact on testicular growth.

Infertility:

Varicoceles are a common cause of male infertility, and they may impact sperm production, motility, and quality. In cases where fertility is a concern, a healthcare professional may recommend further evaluation and, if necessary, treatment.

Varicocele grade:

Varicoceles are often graded based on their size and severity. The most commonly used is the clinical grading system, which classifies varicoceles into three grades:

Grade I (Subclinical or Small):

Grade I varicoceles are typically not visible or palpable (felt) without the Valsalva maneuver, which involves bearing down or taking a deep breath to increase abdominal pressure. They may only be detected using techniques like ultrasound. These are considered mild or subclinical and may not cause noticeable symptoms.

Grade II (Palpable):

Grade II varicoceles are palpable (can be felt) without the need for the Valsalva maneuver. The veins are easily felt when the person is standing. This grade indicates a moderate-sized varicocele.

Grade III (Visible):

Grade III varicoceles are not only palpable but also visible. The enlarged veins are easily seen when the person is standing. These are considered large and may be associated with more significant symptoms.

Sarteschi/Liguori is another classification that depends on swollen veins, where they are, and their behavior when standing or lying down.

  • Grade 1: Swollen veins in the groin when standing.
  • Grade 2: Swollen veins reach the upper part of the testis when standing.
  • Grade 3: Swollen veins around the testis when standing.
  • Grade 4: Swollen veins when lying down and standing, getting bigger when a person strains. Varicocele grade 4 symptoms include dull aching pain, visible veins and testicular shrinkage may happen.
  • Grade 5: Enlarged veins when lying down and standing. Testicular shrinkage is common. Reflux doesn’t increase when you strain.

Diagnosis:

The diagnosis of a varicocele typically involves a combination of a physical examination, medical history review, and sometimes imaging studies like ultrasound.

A common test used by physicians to check for varicoceles is valsalva maneuver. This involves taking a deep breath and bearing down, which increases abdominal pressure. The doctor will then check for changes in the size of the veins in the scrotum during this maneuver.

How Are Varicoceles Treated?

The treatment of varicocele depends on the staging of the disease. For some watchful waiting is best while others having severe issue medical intervention is needed.

Observation:

Not all varicoceles cause symptoms or fertility issues. In some cases, the condition may be asymptomatic and not require treatment. Regular monitoring may be recommended to assess any changes in symptoms or the varicocele itself.

Supportive Measures:

Scrotal Support: Wearing supportive underwear or a scrotal support (like a jockstrap) can help relieve discomfort associated with varicoceles by reducing pressure on the veins.

Lifestyle Changes:

Diet and Exercise: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can contribute to overall vascular health.

Medication:

There is no specific medication approved for the treatment of varicoceles, but some medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms such as pain or discomfort. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be recommended for pain relief.

3-D Precision Guided Varicocele Embolization:

This is varicocele treatment without surgery. Transcatheter embolization is a minimally invasive procedure in which a catheter is threaded through the blood vessels to the varicocele. A substance is then injected to block the blood flow in the affected veins, causing them to shrink. This procedure is typically performed by an interventional radiologist.

Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed is an expert endovascular surgeon and interventional radiologist with extensive experience in embolization techniques. He is the founder of 3-D precision guided varicocele embolization of varicocele.He has successfully treated all grades of varicocele without surgery. His areas of expertise include non-surgical treatment for varicocele, male infertility, and venous leak. Additionally, he addresses female infertility issues.

For further assistance email now at info@drimtiazahmad.com. Follow us on Instagram @Profdr_imtiaz_ahmad for daily updates.