Elbow Embolization
A Non-Surgical Treatment for Golfer’s Elbow & Tennis Elbow. Elbow Embolization is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure that reduces chronic elbow pain by blocking the abnormal blood vessels that cause inflammation and nerve sensitivity in the damaged tendon.
Contact AVC to see if you are a candidate for Elbow Embolization.
Overview of Elbow Embolization
Chronic elbow pain caused by Golfer’s Elbow (medial epicondylitis) or Tennis Elbow (lateral epicondylitis) can affect your ability to work, play sports, or perform simple tasks like lifting or gripping.
These conditions are caused by tendon overuse and degeneration, not just inflammation. Over time, abnormal blood vessels and nerve endings form in the tendons, keeping them inflamed and painful—even after rest or treatment.
If rest, physical therapy, braces, medications, or injections haven’t helped, elbow embolization may offer relief—without surgery.
What Is Elbow Embolization?
Elbow Embolization is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure that reduces chronic elbow pain by blocking the abnormal blood vessels that cause inflammation and nerve sensitivity in the damaged tendon.
- Lateral epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow) affects the outer part of the elbow
- Medial epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow) affects the inner part of the elbow
During embolization, tiny medical particles are injected into these abnormal vessels, reducing inflammation, calming pain, and allowing the tendon to heal naturally.
Benefits of Elbow Embolization
- Non-surgical and outpatient
- Targets the cause of pain, not just the symptoms
- Quick recovery (usually 1–3 days)
- Long-term relief without tendon damage
- No general anesthesia or incisions
- Ideal for people who want to avoid elbow surgery
This is an excellent option for patients who have chronic elbow pain lasting 6+ months, especially when other treatments have failed.
The Elbow Embolization Procedure
At Advanced Vascular Centers, your treatment is performed by board-certified specialists in a comfortable outpatient setting:
1. Initial Consultation & Imaging
We confirm the diagnosis with a physical exam and imaging (typically MRI or ultrasound) to identify signs of tendon degeneration and abnormal blood flow.
2. The Procedure
- You’ll receive local anesthesia—you’ll be awake and comfortable
- A catheter is inserted through a small artery in the wrist or arm
- Using X-ray imaging, we guide the catheter to the vessels supplying the inflamed elbow tendon
- Microscopic embolic particles are injected to block the abnormal vessels
- The catheter is removed and a bandage is placed—no stitches, no downtime
3. Recovery
- Go home the same day
- Resume light activity within 1–3 days
- Avoid strenuous elbow use for a short period (as advised)
- Pain relief begins in 2–6 weeks, with continued improvement over time
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, especially when done before severe tendon tearing occurs.
Is Elbow Embolization Right for Me?
You may be a good candidate if you:
- Have had tennis or golfer’s elbow for more than 6 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.
Risks and Complications
Elbow Embolization is very safe when performed by an experienced interventional specialist. Still, as with any medical procedure, there are risks.
Common, mild side effects:
- Temporary bruising or discomfort at the catheter site
- Mild elbow or forearm soreness
Rare but possible complications:
- Non-target embolization (affecting healthy vessels)
- Temporary numbness or tingling
- Allergic reaction to contrast dye
- Infection (very rare with sterile technique)
We use precise image-guided techniques to minimize all risks.
FAQS
What is Elbow Embolization?
It’s a minimally invasive treatment that blocks the abnormal blood vessels fueling inflammation and pain in chronic tendon conditions like Tennis Elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and Golfer’s Elbow (medial epicondylitis).
How do I know if I’m a candidate?
You may be eligible if you’ve had elbow pain for over 6 months, tried conservative treatments without relief, and imaging shows increased vascularity near the tendon. We’ll evaluate you with imaging to confirm.
Does the procedure hurt?
Not at all. It’s performed with local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Mild soreness may follow, but most patients are comfortable and resume normal activity quickly.
How long does it take and what’s the downtime?
The procedure takes about 45–60 minutes, and you’ll go home the same day. Most people return to light activity within 1–3 days and feel better within a few weeks.
When will I feel better?
Most patients notice improved pain and function within 2 to 6 weeks, with continued progress over several months as the tendon heals.
Are there risks or side effects?
Elbow Embolization is very safe. Mild side effects include temporary soreness or bruising. Rare complications include non-target embolization, temporary numbness, or contrast dye reactions.
Can this prevent the need for surgery?
Yes. Many patients are able to avoid elbow surgery thanks to embolization—especially when treated early, before the tendon becomes severely damaged.
Is it covered by insurance?
Coverage varies. Our team will help you verify insurance benefits, explain costs, and walk you through every step before scheduling.
Please contact our office to schedule a consultation to see if Elbow Embolization is right for you.
TESTIMONIALS
Jack Wood
Marilyn Vogel
Dennis Smith
Me’Me’ Sannaon
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