Last updated on June 20, 2026
Looking for effective treatment options for chronic pelvic pain, an enlarged prostate, uterine fibroids or varicocele that doesn’t require surgery? At Vein Doctors Sydney, we offer embolisation, an alternative to open surgery that may offer the relief you’re looking for. In this article, we explain what embolisation is, how it works, the specific conditions it can treat and what you can expect before, during and after the procedure.
What is Embolisation?
Embolisation is a minimally invasive medical procedure that reduces or blocks blood flow to a targeted area of the body. It is performed by interventional radiologists, such as Dr Ryan McConnell, who use real-time imaging to guide the treatment with precision, with most cases not requiring large incisions or general anaesthesia.
The procedure works by delivering small embolic materials through a thin catheter directly into a blood vessel, effectively controlling the blood supply to the affected tissue or vein.
How Does an Embolisation Procedure Work?
Step-by-Step Process
While the specifics vary depending on the condition being treated, the general process follows these key steps:
- A small catheter (a thin, flexible tube) is inserted into a blood vessel, typically through a small puncture in the skin.
- The catheter is guided through the blood vessels to the treatment site using real-time imaging such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound.
- Embolic material, which may include tiny coils, microspheres or a sclerosant solution, is delivered through the catheter to the targeted vessel.
- Blood flow to the area is blocked or significantly reduced, relieving symptoms and allowing the tissue to shrink or heal over time.
The approach is carefully controlled throughout, allowing the treating specialist to target only the affected vessels while preserving healthy surrounding tissue.
Benefits of an Embolisation Procedure
Patients who are good candidates for embolisation often experience numerous advantages compared to open surgical alternatives:
- No large incisions required
- Faster recovery and return to daily activities
- Lower risk of complications
- Performed under real-time imaging guidance for precision
- Often completed as an outpatient or day procedure
- Less post-procedural pain in most cases
Risks and Side Effects
As with any medical procedure, embolisation carries some risks. Most patients tolerate the treatment well, but it is important to be informed before proceeding.
Common and generally mild side effects include:
- Mild pain or discomfort at the treatment site
- Temporary inflammation or post-embolisation syndrome (a flu-like response that typically resolves within a few days)
- Bruising or tenderness around the catheter insertion site
Less common but more serious complications can include infection, an allergic reaction to contrast dye, or non-target embolisation, in which embolic material inadvertently affects a vessel beyond the intended treatment area. Your specialist will discuss the specific risk profile for your procedure at your consultation.
Types of Embolisation Treatments Offered at Vein Doctors Sydney
Embolisation is used to treat a range of vascular and related conditions. At Vein Doctors Sydney, we offer the following procedures:
Ovarian Vein Embolisation (Pelvic Congestion Syndrome)
Ovarian vein embolisation is designed for women experiencing chronic pelvic pain caused by pelvic congestion syndrome, a condition in which the ovarian and pelvic veins become enlarged and varicose, much like varicose veins in the legs. Blood pools in these veins, creating a heaviness or aching sensation, particularly when standing for extended periods.
The goal of the procedure is to reduce pressure in the affected veins and relieve associated pain without requiring surgery.
Varicocele Embolisation
A varicocele is an enlargement of the veins within the scrotum, similar to varicose veins. It is a common cause of male infertility and can also cause discomfort or a dragging sensation in the testicles.
Varicocele embolisation is a minimally invasive alternative to surgical correction. By blocking blood flow through the affected veins, the varicocele shrinks, and the associated symptoms typically improve. Studies also show improvements in sperm quality following the procedure in many patients.
Prostate Artery Embolisation (PAE)
Prostate artery embolisation is used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as an enlarged prostate. BPH affects many men as they age and can cause uncomfortable urinary symptoms, including frequent urination, difficulty starting or stopping the flow and a weak urinary stream.
PAE works by reducing blood supply to the prostate, causing it to shrink and relieving pressure on the urethra. It is a well-established alternative to surgical prostate procedures and is associated with a lower risk of side effects.
Uterine Fibroid Embolisation (UFE)
Uterine fibroid embolisation is used to treat uterine fibroids, which are non-cancerous growths in the wall of the uterus. Fibroids can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure, frequent urination and pain.
UFE works by cutting off the blood supply to the fibroids, causing them to shrink over time. Importantly, it preserves the uterus and avoids the need for a hysterectomy, making it a popular option for women who wish to avoid major surgery.
Embolisation vs. Surgery: What’s the Difference?
For patients weighing up their options, it helps to understand how embolisation compares to conventional surgical approaches.
What to Expect: Before, During and After
Before
Before your procedure, you will undergo a consultation with Dr Ryan, who will review your symptoms and medical history. Imaging tests such as an ultrasound, MRI or CT scan are typically arranged to assess the affected region and confirm that embolisation is the right approach for you. You may also receive instructions about fasting or adjusting certain medications in the lead-up to your appointment.
During
The procedure is generally performed under local anaesthetic with sedation, so you will be relaxed and comfortable throughout. Depending on the type of embolisation, the procedure typically takes between 30 and 90 minutes, with most patients reporting minimal discomfort.
After
In most cases, patients are discharged on the same day or following a short observation period. Some mild soreness or fatigue is normal in the days following the procedure. Most patients can return to light activities within a few days, with full recovery typically occurring within 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the procedure type.
This compares favourably to open surgery, which typically involves a hospital stay of several days, a longer and more uncomfortable recovery period and visible scarring at the incision site. As embolisation is performed through a small puncture rather than a large incision, there is less trauma to the surrounding tissue, which is one of the key reasons recovery is faster and post-procedural pain tends to be more manageable.
Your specialist will provide detailed aftercare instructions and schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your recovery.
How to Book an Appointment
At Vein Doctors Sydney, we are committed to providing personalised and compassionate care for patients seeking treatment. For more information on our services or to schedule a consultation at our clinic, please contact our friendly staff by calling us on (02) 9023 9970, via our online form or by sending us an email.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is embolisation painful?
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure, as it is performed under local anaesthesia and sedation. Some mild soreness or cramping may occur in the days following treatment, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery varies depending on the procedure type, but most patients return to normal daily activities within a few days. Full recovery typically takes one to two weeks.
Is embolisation permanent?
In most cases, yes. While the treated vessels typically remain closed, outcomes can vary depending on the individual, the condition being treated and how the body responds over time. In some cases, new blood vessels may develop, or symptoms may gradually return, meaning further treatment could be required. Your specialist will assess your situation and discuss what you can realistically expect from embolisation in the long term.
Is embolisation safer than surgery?
Embolisation is generally considered a safe, minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery, with a lower risk of complications in many cases. As it is performed through a small catheter rather than open surgery, it typically involves less pain, reduced blood loss and a lower risk of infection. Recovery is also usually quicker, with most patients returning to normal activities sooner compared to surgical procedures.
Will I need repeat treatment?
The majority of patients achieve good results from a single procedure. In some cases, a repeat embolisation may be recommended if symptoms persist or recur. Your specialist will monitor your progress at follow-up appointments and advise accordingly.
This information is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment. It is aimed at presenting a perspective only and is not a substitute for a prescription. Anyone experiencing a medical condition should consult their doctor.
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