Treatments

Musculoskeletal embolization is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic joint and soft tissue pain, such as in knee osteoarthritis (OA) or plantar fasciitis, by reducing abnormal blood vessel formation (neovascularization) that contributes to inflammation and pain. Under imaging guidance, typically fluoroscopy or angiography, tiny particles or embolic agents are delivered through a catheter to selectively block these abnormal vessels. This reduces inflammation, decreases pain, and may improve mobility without surgery. The procedure is particularly beneficial for patients who have persistent pain despite conservative treatments like medications, physiotherapy, or injections. Recovery is usually quick, and the procedure can often be performed on an outpatient basis.

Indications

• Chronic knee osteoarthritis with pain not responding to conservative therapy
• Chronic plantar fasciitis resistant to standard treatments
• Patients seeking minimally invasive alternatives to surgery

Procedure Steps

• Local anesthesia and vascular access via femoral or radial artery
• Angiography to identify abnormal blood vessels supplying inflamed tissues
• Selective catheterization of target vessels
• Embolic agent delivered to block abnormal neovascularization
• Final imaging to confirm adequate embolization

Benefits

• Reduces chronic pain and inflammation
• Improves joint function and mobility
• Minimally invasive, outpatient procedure
• Avoids surgical risks and long recovery

Risks / Complications

• Localized bruising or pain at catheter site
• Rare non-target embolization causing tissue damage
• Temporary swelling or mild discomfort
• Rare infection