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Pelvic Vein Embolization

Pelvic Vein Embolization.jpg

Pelvic vein embolization is an advanced minimally invasive treatment designed for women suffering from chronic pain in the lower pelvic area resulting from "Pelvic Congestion Syndrome". This syndrome is caused by insufficiency of the veins in the pelvis, similar to varicose veins in the legs. When the one-way valves in these veins (mainly the ovarian veins) do not function properly, blood does not flow efficiently back to the heart but rather pools in the pelvic veins, causing them to dilate and become tortuous. This accumulation creates pressure and heaviness, leading to dull, continuous pain, which usually worsens with prolonged standing, at the end of the day, or during sexual intercourse. The treatment is intended for women diagnosed with pelvic venous congestion after other causes of pain have been ruled out, and whose symptoms significantly impair their quality of life.

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The procedure is performed in a catheterization room by an interventional radiologist, usually under sedation and local anesthesia without the need for general anesthesia. The physician inserts a catheter (a thin, flexible tube) through a vein in the groin or neck. Under X-ray fluoroscopy guidance and using contrast agent, the physician navigates the catheter to the dilated and diseased veins in the pelvis. After identifying the problematic veins with retrograde blood flow, the physician inserts tiny metal coils and sometimes sclerosing agents (like medical foam) through the catheter. These means cause deliberate blockage of the diseased vein, stopping the faulty blood flow within it and forcing the blood to flow through other healthy veins in the area, thereby reducing pressure and congestion in the pelvis.

Among the advantages are
 

  • The treatment does not require open abdominal surgery or removal of organs such as the uterus or ovaries.

  • Recovery time is very quick, allowing a return to routine within just a few days.

  • The procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis without the need for an overnight hospital stay.

  • Success rates in reducing chronic pain and improving quality of life are very high.

  • The procedure is performed through a tiny puncture in the skin and does not leave significant scars.

Disadvantages and risks
 

  • Pelvic pain may occur in the first few days after the procedure as a result of the vein blockage process.

  • There is a low risk of developing a hematoma or infection at the catheter insertion site in the groin or neck.

  • In very rare cases, migration of the blocking coils to other parts of the body may occur.

  • Some patients may experience an allergic reaction to the contrast agent injected during fluoroscopy.

Created & Authored by Dr. Michal Mauda-Havakuk. All rights reserved 2026 ©
Content is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or consultation

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