Hip Embolization

A Minimally Invasive Option for Chronic Hip Arthritis. Hip Embolization is a non-surgical, image-guided procedure that targets and blocks abnormal blood vessels in the hip joint that contribute to chronic inflammation and pain.

Contact AVC to see if you are a candidate for Hip Embolization.

OVERVIEW

Overview of Hip Embolization

Chronic hip arthritis, including osteoarthritis, is a common and painful condition that affects the hip joint, leading to stiffness, inflammation, and difficulty walking or performing daily activities.

Patients often experience:

Deep pain in the groin or outer hip
Pain with walking, standing, or climbing stairs
Stiffness after rest
Decreased mobility and quality of life

If medications, physical therapy, and injections no longer provide relief—and you’re not ready or eligible for surgery—Hip Embolization may be a promising solution.

What Is Hip Embolization?

Hip Embolization is a non-surgical, image-guided procedure that targets and blocks abnormal blood vessels in the hip joint that contribute to chronic inflammation and pain.

In osteoarthritis and other degenerative conditions, abnormal blood vessel growth around the joint can worsen pain by increasing inflammation and nerve sensitivity. Embolization works by stopping this cycle—blocking the excess vessels to calm inflammation and allow natural healing.

Benefits of Hip Embolization

Minimally Invasive – No incisions, implants, or joint reconstruction
Outpatient Procedure – Performed in our vascular center; no hospital stay
Quick Recovery – Back to normal light activity in 1–3 days
Significant Pain Reduction – Often within 2–6 weeks
Delays or Avoids Surgery – Ideal for patients not ready for hip replacement
Preserves Joint Structure – Treats inflammation without altering anatomy

Hip Embolization is best for mild to moderate osteoarthritis and chronic pain that hasn’t improved with conservative care.

PROCEDURE

The Hip Embolization Procedure

At Advanced Vascular Centers, Hip Embolization is performed using advanced technology and minimally invasive techniques:

1. Evaluation & Imaging

We’ll assess your symptoms and confirm your diagnosis using X-ray, MRI, or CT angiography to locate the abnormal blood flow around the hip joint.

2. During the Procedure

You’ll receive local anesthesia at the catheter insertion site (usually the groin)
A thin catheter is guided into the arteries supplying the hip joint using real-time X-ray imaging
A safe embolic agent (tiny medical particles) is injected to block the abnormal vessels contributing to inflammation
The catheter is removed, and only a small bandage is needed—no stitches, no open surgery

3. After the Procedure

Most patients go home within a few hours
Resume light activity within 24–72 hours
Pain relief usually begins within 2–6 weeks, with ongoing improvement for months

What Results Can I Expect?

Patients often report:

Less groin or hip pain
Improved walking ability
Better mobility and endurance
Improved sleep and comfort
Reduced reliance on medications

In studies, many patients show pain improvement of 50–80% or more, especially in early- to mid-stage arthritis.

Is Hip Embolization Right for Me?

You may be a good candidate if:

You’ve had hip arthritis symptoms for 6+ months
You’ve tried medications, physical therapy, or injections without lasting relief
You want to avoid or delay surgery
Imaging confirms excess blood vessels and signs of chronic inflammation

Our expert vascular team will review your imaging and health history to determine if this is the right option for you.

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RISKS & COMPLICATIONS

Risks and Complications

Hip Embolization is generally very safe, but like all procedures, it carries some risk.

Common, mild side effects:

Bruising or mild soreness at the access site
Temporary fatigue or stiffness in the hip
Mild swelling or discomfort during recovery

Rare but possible complications:

Non-target embolization (affecting nearby tissue)
Temporary numbness or nerve irritation
Allergic reaction to contrast dye
Infection at the access site (extremely rare)

We use precision imaging and advanced techniques to reduce these risks as much as possible.

FAQS

What is Hip Embolization?

Hip Embolization is a non-surgical procedure that treats chronic hip arthritis by blocking abnormal blood vessels that drive inflammation and pain. It’s ideal for people who want relief but aren’t ready—or don’t qualify—for joint replacement surgery.

How do I know if I’m a good candidate?

You may be a candidate if you have mild to moderate hip osteoarthritis, have tried conservative treatments without success, and your imaging shows signs of increased vascularity in the joint. We’ll perform a full evaluation to determine your eligibility.

Is the procedure painful?

No. The procedure is done using local anesthesia, so you’ll be awake but comfortable. Most patients feel only minor discomfort, like a pinch or pressure. Mild soreness may follow, but it usually resolves within a few days.

How long does the procedure take?

The procedure usually takes 45 to 60 minutes. After a brief recovery period, you’ll go home the same day and typically resume light activity in 1–3 days.

When will I start feeling better?

Many patients begin to feel relief within 2 to 6 weeks, with continued improvement over the following months as inflammation decreases.

Are there risks or side effects?

Hip Embolization is very safe, but minor side effects can include bruising, temporary hip stiffness, or mild soreness. Rare complications include non-target embolization or contrast reactions, which are very uncommon with proper care.

Can this delay or replace the need for a hip replacement?

Yes, for many patients with early or moderate arthritis, Hip Embolization can delay or even eliminate the need for surgery by significantly reducing pain and improving mobility.

Will insurance cover Hip Embolization?

Coverage depends on your insurance plan and diagnosis. Our team will help you verify benefits and review your options before scheduling any procedure.

Please contact our office to schedule a consultation to see if Hip Embolization is right for you.

TESTIMONIALS

Jack Wood

Google Testimonial

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Marilyn Vogel

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Dennis Smith

Me’Me’ Sannaon

Google Testimonial

January 24, 2022

Hip Embolization