Surgery or Embolization: Which is Better?

Well, both are bad options. Don't fall for the surgery vs embolization marketing tactic. Embolization is typically sold as a "non-surgical" alternative to varicocelectomy, with only a small "small incision", "no general anaesthetic", and on an "out-patient bases". Hmmm, that sounds great, right? 
Hmmm, I think we forgot something... Oh yeah, Results! Will it treat your varicocele? Will it improve your fertility and help you attain successful pregnancy? Will it cure your pain? Well, as it turns out the answer to all of these is "likely no", and "we're not certain". The science is really lacking on embolization. 

But, you know what is certain? The risks of embolization. 

Embolization is a radiological procedure, that means x-ray exposure, and x-ray dye injection to help visualize the veins. It also has a high varicocele recurrence rate--up to 35% for right-sided varicoceles. 10-35% chance of hydrocele formation. Oh and my favorite one: Coil migration resulting in testicular loss... And many more risks.

• Comprehensive: Embolization Risks & Benefits >