Ovarian Vein Embolisation

Ovarian Vein Embolisation

What is ovarian vein embolisation?
Ovarian vein embolisation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS). PCS occurs when there is an accumulation of blood in the veins of the pelvis, which can cause pain, discomfort, and other symptoms. The procedure involves the insertion of a catheter (small plastic tube) into the affected ovarian vein, followed by injection of a substance (usually a type of coil or foam) that causes the vein to become blocked, reducing blood flow and relieving symptoms.

Why is ovarian vein embolisation performed?
Ovarian vein embolisation is performed to treat PCS, which can cause chronic pelvic pain, discomfort during sex, and other symptoms. The condition is more common in women who have had multiple pregnancies. It can also occur in women who have had pelvic surgery or trauma.
The procedure aims to reduce symptoms by blocking the affected vein, which helps to alleviate pressure and improve blood flow in the surrounding veins.

What happens during the procedure?
Before the procedure, you will be given a local anaesthetic to numb the area where the catheter will be inserted. You may also be given a sedative and possibly medication to prevent nausea.
Once you are comfortable, the doctor will insert a catheter into a vein in your neck or groin and guide it to the affected ovarian vein. A contrast dye is injected to help visualise the area, and then coils or foam will be injected into the vein, causing it to become blocked.
After the procedure, you will need to lie or sit still for a few hours. You may have pain medication or anti-inflammatory drugs to manage any discomfort. You will also need to avoid any strenuous activity for a few days and may need to take some time off work.

What are the risks and complications?
Like any medical procedure, ovarian vein embolisation carries some risks and possible complications. These may include:

• Temporary discomfort, pain, or bleeding at the site of catheter insertion
• Infection
• Reaction to the anaesthetic or medications used
• Adverse reaction to the injected coils or foam
• Damage to surrounding organs or tissues
• Risk of blood clot formation
• Recurrence of symptoms

Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with you before proceeding.

What should I expect after the procedure?
You may experience some mild discomfort or cramping in the days following the procedure, and you may notice some bruising or swelling around the site of catheter insertion.
Try and avoid any strenuous activity for a few days to allow your body time to heal, and you may need to take some time off work. It is advisable to avoid sexual activity for a short period.

Most people can resume normal activities within a week or two, and most experience a significant improvement in symptoms within a few weeks.

Further information:
BSIR Pelvic Venous Congestion Patient Information
https://www.bsir.org/patients/pelvic-venous-congestion-syndrome/

If your symptoms or condition worsens, or if you are concerned about anything, please call your GP, 111, or 999.

Patient Experience
We know that being admitted to hospital can be a difficult and unsettling time for you and your loved ones. If you have any questions or concerns, please do speak with a member of staff on the ward or in the relevant department who will do their best to answer your questions and reassure you. 

Feedback
Feedback is really important and useful to us – it can tell us where we are working well and where improvements can be made. There are lots of ways you can share your experience with us including completing our Friends and Family Test – cards are available and can be posted on all wards, departments and clinics at our hospitals. We value your comments and feedback and thank you for taking the time to share this with us.

Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)
If you have any concerns or questions about your care, we advise you to talk with the nurse in charge or the department manager in the first instance as they are best placed to answer any questions or resolve concerns quickly. If the relevant member of staff is unable to help resolve your concern, you can contact the PALS Team. We offer informal help, advice or support about any aspect of hospital services & experiences.

Our PALS team will liaise with the various departments in our hospitals on your behalf, if you feel unable to do so, to resolve your problems and where appropriate refer to outside help.

If you are still unhappy you can contact the Complaints Department, who can investigate your concerns. You can make a complaint orally, electronically or in writing and we can advise and guide you through the complaints procedure.

How to contact PALS:
Telephone Patient Services: 0300 123 1732 or via email at: [email protected]

Opening times:
The PALS telephone lines are open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 4.00pm. Please be aware that you may need to leave a voicemail message, but we aim to return your call within one working day.

If you are unable to understand this leaflet, please communicate with a member of staff.

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