Embolization for Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

Pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS) causes chronic pelvic pain in women. When pelvic veins widen, blood can pool in the pelvic area, causing significant pain. For some patients, this pain is debilitating.

We use embolization to improve the symptoms of PCS. This is a minimally invasive procedure to stop the blood flow to the problematic veins.

During an embolization, we insert specialized particles into the problematic vein to seal it. This stops blood from pooling and eliminates the source of the pain.

How Does It Work?

We start the procedure with an intravenous (IV) line to deliver a sedative drug. After that we numb the pelvic region and make a small incision. We thread a catheter through the incision until it reaches the veins. Imaging technology, like ultrasound, helps ensure safe access to the correct vein.

Next, we inject a contrast to help make x-ray images of the veins more clear. Once we locate the malformed vein, we inject embolizing agents into the vein. These are synthetic particles like tiny coils or a glue-like substance.

After the agents seal the bad vein, the body reroutes blood flow leading to significantly reduced pain.

Benefits of Embolization for Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

Embolization is a safe procedure that is very effective at treating PCS. Nearly 80% of women that received embolization for PCS reported a successful procedure.

As embolization is minimally invasive, it has fewer complications than a surgery, including less risk of bleeding.

After Treatment

Most women who receive embolization for pelvic congestion syndrome get back to their lives quickly. At most you may need to stay overnight so we can observe and manage pain.

You can treat any residual pain after this point with over the counter pain relief drugs. You should be able to resume your daily activities within a week after the procedure.