Tendon Embolization

Context and indications

Chronic tendinopathies (Achilles tendon, patellar tendon, rotator cuff, epicondylitis) are accompanied by pathological neovascularization that maintains pain and inflammation. Embolization is offered after failure of conservative treatments (physiotherapy, injections, shockwave therapy).

Benefits

Significant pain reduction in 70-80% of cases, minimally invasive outpatient treatment, alternative to surgery, rapid return to activities (1-2 weeks).

Procedure

Under local anesthesia, a micro-catheter is inserted through the radial or femoral artery and guided to the feeding arteries of the pathological tendon. Microparticles are injected to occlude the abnormal neovessels. The procedure takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.

Risks

Transient pain at the treatment site, puncture site hematoma, skin lesion (exceptional), symptom recurrence.

Follow-up

Same-day discharge. Pain improvement is progressive over 2 to 4 weeks. Follow-up consultation at 1-3 months.

Practical information

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis (same-day discharge).