Elbow Embolization: A Non-Surgical Treatment for Golfer’s Elbow & Tennis Elbow

Patient Flow

At Advanced Vascular Centers, elbow embolization is performed by expert interventionalists following the original Okuno method, below you can find information on the individual steps we take for each patient. 

1. Pre-procedural consultation

As a patient, you will meet with the doctor beforehand and we review your symptoms, exam findings, prior medical record, and prior imaging (X-ray, MRI, or CT) to confirm your diagnosis. We discuss your case in depth and make sure you have a complete understanding of the procedure.

2. Procedure day

• Check in – One to two hours beforehand to prepare and for a medical history review.
• Numbing medication – Local numbing medication is given at the access site at the wrist.  A mild relaxing medication can be given to make you comfortable as well. A nurse will be monitoring your blood pressure as a precaution while our doctor is performing the procedure. 
• Access – A tiny IV (needle) accesses the blood vessel and a catheter is inserted and guided into the arteries supplying the elbow joint.
• Treatment – Once the catheter is in the correct position, medication is injected to block the abnormal vessels. The normal blood vessels supplying the elbow joint remain open.
• Completion – The catheter is removed, and a small bandage is applied—no stitches, no open incisions.

3. Recovery

• Rest for approximately 30 minutes after the procedure.
• You go home about 1 hour after the procedure.
• Most patients resume light activity the next day.
• Full activity will resume in about 1 week.
• Pain relief typically begins within 2–4 weeks and can be sustained for 2+ years.

4. Follow-up

• 1 month after the procedure we see you in clinic to check your symptoms.
  • If you are progressing as expected, no further follow ups are needed. 
• We love hearing and sharing in our patients’ success so we encourage all our patients to follow up as needed!

What Results Can I Expect?

Elbow embolization has shown excellent results in clinical studies and in practice:

• Less elbow pain during lifting or gripping
• Better range of motion and strength
• Reduced reliance on medications or braces
• Return to work or sports faster
• Lasting relief for many months or years

Patients often report 50–90% improvement in pain.

Is Elbow Embolization Right for Me?

You may be a good candidate if you:

• Have had tennis or golfer’s elbow for more than 3 months
• Tried rest, physical therapy, or injections with no lasting improvement
• Want to avoid surgery or steroid overuse
• Have mild to moderate tendon degeneration without a full tear
  

We’ll perform a full evaluation to confirm whether embolization is right for your condition.