Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Treatment
Ovarian vein embolization
The goal of embolization is to close off faulty veins so they don't swell with blood anymore. Embolization is the ideal treatment because it's minimally invasive.
How is ovarian vein embolization performed?
Small incision
The patient is given a sedative and a local anesthetic is applied to the area where the catheter will be inserted. Then, a small incision is made in the femoral vein (located in the groin) and a thin catheter is inserted into the vein and guided to the ovarian vein using imaging techniques.
Contrast material injected
Contrast material is injected into your IV to ensure the location of the faulty vein.
Tiny particles released
These particles block the blood flow to the ovaries, causing the abnormal veins to shrink and reducing symptoms.
Blocking blood flow
Once the catheter is in place, tiny particles are released through the catheter and into the ovarian vein.
Remove catheter
The catheter is then removed and the incision is closed with a bandage.
Final steps
Patient is monitored for any complications. Then, the catheter is then removed and the incision is closed with a bandage.
Since the procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis, the patient can go home the same day.
A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to monitor the patient's progress.
What is recovery like?
After pelvic congestion syndrome treatment, you may find that the recovery process can be a long and challenging road.
Treatment for pelvic congestion syndrome is focused on relieving symptoms, so that your day to day life can become more manageable and less uncomfortable.
Taking time to relax, eating a nutritious diet and doing pelvic floor exercises are all important aspects of recovery to help you get back to feeling like yourself again.
Trying out home remedies like hot water bottles or compresses can also provide some much needed relief during the healing process. Be sure to check in with your doctor regularly so they can monitor your progress and suggest any other treatments which may help along the way.