Method for treatment of varicocele

Abstract

A minimally invasive method for treating varices in especially sensitive areas, including pelvic varices in females, varicoceles, and also oesophageal varices is presented. The method comprises the steps of making a micro incision into the blood vessels of a patient, endoscopically inserting a catheter device into the blood vessel of a patient and advancing the distal end of the catheter to reach the varix or varices. Insertion can be made in the femoral vein and advanced using a catheter. A first localizer is placed on the distal end of said catheter to allow use of x-ray, angiography, or other imaging techniques to visualize and position the catheter. An optical fiber is then inserted into the catheter and the distal end is advanced to a predetermined point near the varix or varices. A second localizer is present on the distal end of said optical fiber to allow use of x-ray, angiography, or other imaging techniques to visualize and position the optical fiber as well. Optical fiber distal end is preferably a slim, radial 360 degree emitting fiber end. Laser energy of preferably 1470±30 nm is then transmitted to the varix to close the blood vessel. Other wavelengths with similar or greater absorption in blood/water than at 1470 nm are also effective. Imaging techniques such as angiographies may again be performed to confirm closure of the vein. The laser source linked to a radial emitting fiber allows for thermo occlusion of varicoceles using about 2-3 W of emitting power with little or no pain or discomfort for patient. The present invention is an out-patient procedure that requires no anesthesia and minimal recovery time, and does not require that any foreign objects be left in the body. This method has been shown to have a high success rate and minimum pain or side effects for the patient.