Did you know that two potential causes of infertility can be treated by radiologists? Uterine fibroids in women and varicocele in men are both conditions that can lead to difficulty conceiving and are commonly treated by our Mayfair Diagnostics interventional radiologists.
An interventional radiologist (IR) is a doctor who specializes in minimally invasive procedures.
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths in or on the walls of the uterus. They affect women mostly during their reproductive years and are diagnosed in a majority of women during their lifetime. Fibroids may cause symptoms including abnormal menstrual bleeding, anemia, pelvic pain, and decreased fertility.
Varicocele is abnormal enlargement of the veins inside the scrotum caused by leaking valves in the veins of the abdomen and pelvis. Varicocele is also common, effecting 10 -15% of men, usually arising in puberty and early adulthood. Symptoms of varicocele include pain, scrotal swelling, and decreased sperm count and sperm motility, which in turn can lead to decreased fertility.
Uterine fibroids can be treated in a variety of ways including drugs, surgery, and by decreasing blood flow to the fibroids (embolization). In some cases, symptoms can be so severe that surgical removal of the uterus (hysterectomy) may be considered.
Varicoceles can be treated by conservative measures, open surgery, or by blocking off abnormal veins causing the varicocele (embolization).
Embolization, performed by an interventional radiologist, is a safe, effective, minimally invasive alternative to surgery for both conditions. In embolization procedures, an IR uses ultrasound and X-ray guidance to painlessly move a small plastic tube through a tiny hole in the skin around the blood vessels of the body to an area of abnormality. After navigating the tube to the site of abnormality, the abnormal blood vessels can be blocked by injecting small metal coils or glue-like liquids through the tube.
For varicocele, the tube would be directed to the abnormal veins draining the enlarged veins in the scrotum. The decrease in back flow from the abnormal, leaky veins decreases the size of the veins in the scrotum and cures the varicocele.
For uterine fibroids, the tube would be directed to the arteries supplying the fibroids. By blocking the blood supply to the fibroids, the fibroids decrease dramatically in size and the symptoms improve or resolve entirely.
Embolization procedures have lower risks and complication rates when compared to their surgical alternatives. Because embolization procedures are performed through a tiny hole in the skin, the hospital stay after this procedure is less than 24 hours and complete recovery from the procedure is often within a week.
Varicocele embolization and uterine fibroid embolization have been shown to be safe and effective treatments, but are relatively new compared to traditional surgery. Varicocele embolization was first performed in 1978. Uterine fibroid embolization was first performed in 1994.
Although they are considered low-risk procedures, there are side effects, risks, and potential complications which should be considered.
Mayfair Diagnostics interventional radiologists perform these embolization procedures in-hospital within Calgary. These procedures are covered under the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan. Out-of-province patients are accepted; you would need to confirm with your provincial health care plan that they will cover the procedure as Alberta Health Services will bill your provincial plan.
If you think you might benefit from one of these procedures, you will need to speak with your family doctor or specialist. Your doctor or specialist will then need to fax a consultation request to Rockyview General Hospital’s Diagnostic Imaging Department at 403-592-4852.
Once the information has been received, our interventional radiology team will review the request and contact you to arrange a consultation to determine if the procedure is appropriate based on your medical history. There may also be imaging required. For example, abdominal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be ordered prior to a uterine artery embolization procedure and a scrotum ultrasound may be needed to diagnose a varicocele prior to varicocele embolization.
For more information, please contact the Mayfair Diagnostics Customer Contact Centre via the following options:
REFERENCES
American Society for Reproductive Medicine (2015) “Fibroids and Fertility.” www.reproductivefacts.org. Accessed March 17, 2022.
Giuliani, E., As-Sanie, S. and Marsh, E.E. (2020) “Epidemiology and management of uterine fibroids.” International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics, 149: 3-9. Accessed March 18, 2022.
Halpern, J., et al. (2016) “Percutaneous embolization of varicocele: technique, indications, relative contraindications, and complications.” Asian Journal of Andrology. 2016 Mar-Apr; 18(2): 234–238. Accessed March 18, 2022.
Johns Hopkins Medicine (2022) “Varicocele Embolization.” www.hopkinsmedicine.org. Accessed March 18, 2022.
Mayo Clinic Staff (2022) “Varicocele.” www.mayoclinic.org. Accessed March 17, 2022.
RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association (2022) “National Infertility Awareness Week.” www.infertilityawareness.org. Accessed March 17, 2022.
Urology Care Foundation (2022) “What are Varicoceles?” www.urologyhealth.org. Accessed March 18, 2022.
Radiologists are specialized physicians who interpret diagnostic imaging to diagnose and monitor a wide range of medical conditions. At Mayfair Diagnostics, they review X-ray, ultrasound, CT, and MRI studies, among others, analyzinsg images in detail and providing comprehensive reports and clinical recommendations to referring physicians. They collaborate closely with technologists and clinic teams to guide imaging protocols, ensure quality and radiation safety standards, and may perform image-guided procedures such as biopsies or injections. Through their expertise and teamwork, radiologists play a key role in accurate diagnosis, effective treatment planning, and improved patient outcomes.
Administrative professionals support the organization across human resources, marketing, operations, strategic partnerships, finance, information technology, and infrastructure. From recruiting staff to promoting services and improving workflows, they help ensure smooth operations and positive experiences for employees and patients. Through collaboration with clinical and support teams, they provide essential coordination that enables efficient, high-quality service.
Diagnostic Imaging Assistant (DIA) support clinic operations and help ensure a positive patient experience. They assist staff by greeting and preparing patients, confirming information, coordinating appointments, and guiding patients through their visit. DIAs also maintain exam rooms, manage documentation, and ensure supplies and equipment are ready. Through strong customer service, attention to detail, and teamwork, they help create a safe and organized environment.
Patient Experience Coordinators (PECs) are the first point of contact, scheduling exams and ensuring accurate patient information. They communicate clearly with patients, coordinate with care teams, and support a smooth, confidential, and customer-focused experience.
Nuclear Medical Technologists perform diagnostic nuclear medicine procedures involving sensitive and highly personal patient circumstances. They are responsible for delivering the highest standard of care in a professional, compassionate, and patient-centered manner, in accordance with provincial regulatory requirements, CAMRT standards, and Mayfair policies and guidelines.
Computed Tomography (CT) Technologists operate CT imaging equipment to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body that assist in diagnosing a wide range of medical conditions. They prepare and position patients for scans, ensure safety protocols are followed, and administer contrast agents when required. CT technologists work closely with radiologists to ensure high-quality diagnostic images are obtained, while providing clear communication and compassionate care to support patient comfort throughout the procedure.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologists operates MRI scanners to produce detailed images of internal body structures used to assist in medical diagnosis and treatment planning. They are responsible for preparing and positioning patients, ensuring all safety protocols are strictly followed due to the strong magnetic field, and obtaining high-quality images as directed by radiologists. MRI technologists combine technical expertise with patient care, providing clear communication and support to ensure a safe, comfortable, and efficient imaging experience.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers perform ultrasound exams to help diagnose and monitor medical conditions. Following Sonography Canada standards and Mayfair Diagnostics protocols, they capture accurate images while ensuring patient safety, comfort, and confidentiality. They work with radiologists and clinical teams to review requisitions, prepare patients, perform scans, and document findings, contributing to accurate diagnoses and a positive patient experience.
Medical Radiation Technologists (MRTs) perform x-ray, mammography, and BMD exams while ensuring patient safety, accuracy, and compassionate care. They also may assist in pain therapy procedures. MRTs verify patient information, explain procedures, position patients, and produce high-quality images. MRTs follow professional standards and protocols, maintaining strict radiation safety, quality assurance, and patient privacy while supporting a positive patient experience.
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EXCELLENCE
We share a commitment to high quality and excellence in all that we do. This commitment calls on all of us to achieve the very best of our capabilities and exceed our own expectations.
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We show pride, enthusiasm, and dedication in everything that we do. We are committed to producing and delivering high-quality results and services. We are passionate about our industry and about our company, services, partners, and patients.
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Our team is supportive of each other’s efforts; we are loyal to one another; and we care for one another both personally and professionally. We promote and support a diverse, yet unified, team. We work together to meet our common goals across Mayfair clinics, locations, and geographies. Only through collaboration on ideas, technologies, and talents can we achieve our mission and vision.
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Join Mayfair Diagnostics, recognized as one of Western Canada’s premier medical imaging organizations. With a century-long legacy and headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Mayfair Diagnostics is dedicated to assisting patients in achieving clarity regarding their health.
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