Transarterial embolization is a minimally invasive treatment that addresses chronic pain that has not improved with medications, injections, or physical therapy. At Medical Vascular Partners, double board-certified diagnostic and interventional radiologists Dr. Rajiv Srinivasa and Dr. Taylor Maloney use advanced, image-guided techniques to target pain at its source, helping patients find relief from persistent hip pain, shoulder pain, and plantar fasciitis.
Overview
Transarterial embolization for chronic pain is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces pain by decreasing abnormal blood flow to inflamed tissues. Using advanced imaging, your physician inserts a tiny catheter into specific arteries supplying the painful area and releases microscopic particles to block excess blood vessels. This reduces inflammation and nerve irritation, helping alleviate persistent pain that has not responded to conservative treatments. Because it targets the vascular source of pain, transarterial embolization offers a precise, tissue-preserving option for chronic hip pain, shoulder pain, and plantar fasciitis without the need for open surgery.
Transarterial Embolization for Chronic Pain Treats
Transarterial embolization is used to treat chronic hip pain, shoulder pain, and plantar fasciitis when inflammation and abnormal blood vessel growth drive ongoing discomfort. By reducing excess blood flow to painful tissues, this procedure can ease symptoms that interfere with daily life and movement. It may help improve issues such as:
- Persistent joint pain that worsens with activity
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the affected area
- Swelling, aching, or tenderness that does not resolve over time
- Difficulty walking, lifting, or performing routine tasks
- Pain that persists despite medications, injections, or physical therapy
How Transarterial Embolization for Chronic Pain Works
Transarterial embolization targets the tiny blood vessels that feed inflamed tissues responsible for chronic pain. Using real-time imaging, your physician places a small catheter into the artery supplying the painful area and releases microscopic particles to block abnormal blood flow. Reducing the blood supply decreases inflammation, nerve sensitivity, and the release of pain-producing chemicals. Over time, this process helps calm irritated structures and allows the body to heal naturally.
Advantages of Transarterial Embolization for Chronic Pain
Transarterial embolization offers an innovative, non-surgical solution for patients whose pain has not improved with traditional therapies. By addressing the vascular component of pain, this procedure provides precise relief while preserving surrounding tissues. Advantages include:
- Minimally invasive treatment performed through a tiny catheter
- Reduced inflammation at the pain source
- Less downtime compared to open surgery
- Improved mobility and daily function
- Long-lasting pain relief for select patients
- Avoidance of general anesthesia in most cases
- Preservation of muscles, tendons, and joint structures
How Long Does the Procedure Take?
Most transarterial embolization procedures take approximately one to two hours, depending on the area being treated and the complexity of the anatomy. Patients are typically able to go home the same day, as this is performed in an outpatient setting. After the procedure, you may rest briefly before returning to normal activities within a few days.
Transarterial Embolization for Chronic Pain FAQs
Is the Procedure Painful?
Patients may feel mild pressure or warmth as the embolic particles are delivered, but discomfort is minimal. Local anesthesia and light sedation help ensure you remain comfortable throughout the treatment. Some temporary soreness or mild swelling may occur afterward, but these symptoms generally improve within a short period and can be managed with medications.
Who is a Good Candidate for Transarterial Embolization?
This procedure is ideal for patients with chronic hip pain, shoulder pain, or plantar fasciitis who have not found relief from physical therapy, medications, or injections. Candidates should have imaging evidence of abnormal blood vessel formation contributing to inflammation and pain. Your physician will evaluate your medical history to determine if this approach is appropriate.
How Soon Will I Notice the Results?
Most patients begin to notice improvements in pain and mobility within several weeks as inflammation decreases and tissues begin to heal. The full benefits may continue to develop over several months, depending on the severity of the condition. Follow-up visits help track progress and adjust recovery recommendations as needed.
Schedule Your Consultation
Medical Vascular Partners is a physician-led practice specializing in minimally invasive, image-guided treatments that target pain at its source. Our board-certified diagnostic and interventional radiologists deliver personalized care using advanced techniques to help you regain comfort and mobility without surgery. If you are suffering from chronic hip pain, shoulder pain, or plantar fasciitis, schedule your consultation to determine your candidacy for transarterial embolization for chronic pain in Austin, TX, today.
