Joint Embolization

Background and indications

Hip osteoarthritis, like knee osteoarthritis, can be accompanied by inflammatory neovascularization. Embolization is under evaluation as an alternative for patients not candidates for or not wishing hip replacement.

Benefits

Potential pain reduction, minimally invasive outpatient treatment.

Procedure

A catheter is guided via the femoral artery to hip arterial branches. Areas of abnormal neovascularization are embolized. Duration: 1-2 hours.

Risks

Transient pain, femoral head necrosis (theoretical risk to monitor), hematoma.

Recovery and follow-up

Same-day discharge. As this is still a recent technique, close follow-up is established.

Practical information

Local anesthesia. Outpatient procedure (return home the same day).