Pelvic venous congestion and treatment options in Geelong
Pelvic venous congestion in women is a condition where large and abnormal veins in the pelvis cause chronic pain, discomfort, and pressure. This condition is more common than many realise, with up to 30 percent of women presenting with pelvic pain potentially suffering from pelvic venous congestion.
What is Ovarian Vein Embolisation?
Ovarian vein embolisation (OVE) is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat dilated and refluxing veins in the pelvis, providing relief from the symptoms of pelvic venous congestion. For those seeking pelvic venous congestion treatment in Geelong, OVE offers a targeted and effective solution.
OVE is considered a safe and effective treatment for pelvic venous congestion in women. However, like any medical procedure, there are associated risks and potential complications, including infection, bleeding, and injury to surrounding organs. It’s crucial for women considering this procedure to weigh these factors carefully.
How is the procedure performed?
During the procedure, an interventional radiologist inserts a catheter (a thin, flexible tube) into a vein in the neck or groin and guides it through the blood vessels to the ovarian veins. Once the catheter is in place, coils are introduced into the vein to block the blood flow to the dilated and refluxing veins. This blockage reduces the pressure and alleviates the pain associated with pelvic venous congestion.
Ovarian vein embolisation is performed under local anaesthetic and light sedation. Most patients can go home the same day as the procedure. The recovery period typically spans a few days to a week, during which time patients might experience mild pain and flu-like symptoms. Most women can return to their normal activities within one week.
For those considering ovarian vein embolisation in Geelong, it’s essential to have a thorough discussion with their healthcare provider and interventional radiologist to understand the risks, benefits, and whether this treatment is the right option for them.