Pelvic Vein Embolisation performed by Dr. David Beckett

Pelvic Vein Embolisation is a walk-in, walk-out procedure, which is used to treat Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (varicose veins of the pelvis).

To give the general public a better understanding of this procedure and what it entails, we have provided a full explanation below along with a demonstration video of Dr. David Beckett performing the procedure at The Whiteley Clinic Bond Street.

What is Pelvic Vein Embolisation?

Pelvic Vein Embolisation is a sophisticated but simple pin hole procedure performed in an outpatient setting, much like a dental surgery. Prior to treatment, the patient will undergo an ultrasound scan performed by a The Whiteley Clinic trained sonographer. The scan enables us to identify the abnormal refluxing veins. Using a specialist x-ray machine during the procedure the surgeon guides a fine tube, known as a catheter, into the refluxing veins.

Once the catheter has been placed into the abnormal vein in the pelvis contrast is injected into the vein so as to clearly show the surgeon where the reflux is and where to place the first coil. Our team work together to place the tiny little coils in to these abnormal veins. These coils, which are made from platinum, cause the abnormal vein to clamp down around it, eliminating any further reflux. Multiple coils may be placed within the regions of abnormality to prevent reflux within that vein. We ensure only abnormal veins undergo treatment and by utilising specialist repositionable coils we can adjust how the coil fits into the vein.

Every patient is different and consequently each pattern of reflux within the pelvic veins is different. The embolisation procedure is tailored to the individual patient’s needs and in some cases more coils are required to ensure a long term result. Our team of nurses ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure, whilst our expert team of doctors aim to complete your procedure in 1 hour for straight forward cases. Any combination of veins from a single region to multiple regions can be coiled.

The ovarian veins which are commonly affected are demonstrated here on a contrast injection. These coils form a permanent blockage to reflux in the abnormal vein. Here we see the x-ray demonstrating coil embolisation of all four refluxing territories.

Following your procedure you are recovered in our waiting room. The procedure for Pelvic Vein Embolisation is walk-in, walk-out. 6 weeks after the procedure a follow up ultrasound scan will be performed to confirm that all of the refluxing veins have been successfully closed.

For more information on Pelvic Congestion Syndrome or Pelvic Vein Embolisation, please see our website. Alternatively, contact us using the contact form, email at info@thewhiteleyclinic.co.uk or call us on 01483 477180.