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Treatment / Ovarian Vein Embolization (OVE)

Ovarian Vein Embolization

Ovarian vein embolization (OVE) is a minimally invasive treatment for pelvic congestion syndrome, a painful condition resulting from the presence of enlarged or varicose veins in the pelvis.

Am I a Candidate for OVE?

After endometriosis, varicose veins in the pelvis are the second leading cause of pelvic pain. The condition is knows as pelvic congestion syndrome. The chronic pain associated with pelvic congestion syndrome can be debilitating.

Your physician will talk to you about your medical history and perform diagnostic testing. Pelvic congestion syndrome can be diagnosed by an endovascular specialist using various imaging techniques such as pelvic venography, MRI, pelvic ultrasound or transvaginal ultrasound. Once it is determined that you are a good candidate for OVE, the next step is treatment. Candidates for OVE are women who suffer from one or more of the following:

  • Deep pelvic pain when sitting or standing
  • Pain that worsens throughout the day
  • Bulging veins on the vula, buttocks and/or the thighs
  • Painful menstrual cycles
  • Pain during or after intercourse
  • Lower abdominal and back pain
  • During and after pregnancy

Risk Factors for Chronic Pelvic Congestion

  • Two or more pregnancies and hormonal increases
  • Fullness of leg veins
  • Polycystic ovaries
  • Hormonal dysfunction

What to Expect from the Procedure?

OVE is an outpatient procedure, performed through a small skin nick (less than ¼ inch long). Using image guidance and a catheter, your vascular and interventional radiologist will close off the veins so they can no longer enlarge with blood.

Recovery

Plan to be in the recovery area for a few hours, after which you will be released. Patients can experience cramps for several days after the procedure. Pelvic cramps are typically most severe during the first 24 hours after the procedure, and improve significantly over the next several days. You will be prescribed oral pain medications.

Most women recover completely within one to two weeks after an ovarian vein embolization, and are able to return to normal activities.

Outcomes of OVE

  • 90%-95% of women report complete or partial relief
  • Less expensive than surgery
  • Less Invasive than surgery

Whether or not you are a candidate for OVE will depend on your diagnosis and consultation with your interventional radiologist. But if you suffer from pelvic congestion syndrome and are looking for a treatment that can offer a safe, quick solution, ovarian vein embolization my be the answer for you. Call IVC today at 503-612-0498 to schedule an appointment for a consultation. You can also read our brochure on Uterine Fibroids & Pelvic Congestion.

* This information about Ovarian Vein Embolization was reviewed by Dr. Jason R. Bauer. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us using the form below.

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We are announcing that Interventional and Vascular Consultants will be closing as of March 10, 2023.

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To assist in a smooth transition to a new provider, you may access your records from your MyHealth account or request a copy of medical records by clicking the link below and completing the Release of Information form.

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Please know that we have greatly valued our relationship with you and wish you the best.

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Jason Bauer, MD RVT
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