WOMEN’S HEALTH
Ovarian Vein Embolization (OVE)
A minimally invasive treatment for pelvic congestion syndrome that relieves chronic pelvic pain without surgery.
What is Ovarian Vein Embolization (OVE)
Ovarian vein embolization (OVE) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS), a condition caused by enlarged or malfunctioning ovarian veins. PCS often leads to chronic pelvic pain, pressure, and discomfort that may worsen after standing, during menstruation, or after pregnancy.
At Seamless Medical Centers, ovarian vein embolization is performed by board-certified interventional radiologist Dr. Zagum Bhatti as an outpatient procedure using image-guided techniques. By closing off the problematic veins, OVE redirects blood flow and helps relieve pelvic pain without the need for major surgery.
Symptoms Treated
Chronic Pelvic Pain
Persistent pain in the pelvic region lasting more than six months that hasn't responded to conventional treatments. Pain is commonly worse with sitting or standing. Patients with PCE also commonly experience pain with intercourse.
Vulvar/Vaginal Varicosities
Enlarged veins that may be associated with pelvic congestion syndrome, causing discomfort, bleeding, and cosmetic concerns. Enlarged veins may also be seen in the groins or thighs.
Menstrual Irregularities
Women with PCE may have heavy, painful periods.
Other Symptoms
Women with PCE commonly have increased frequency of urination, frequent bouts of constipation and diarrhea (irritable bowel), chronic pain in other parts of the body.
Chronic Pelvic Pain
Persistent pain in the pelvic region lasting more than six months that hasn't responded to conventional treatments. Pain is commonly worse with sitting or standing. Patients with PCE also commonly experience pain with intercourse.
Vulvar/Vaginal Varicosities
Enlarged veins that may be associated with pelvic congestion syndrome, causing discomfort, bleeding, and cosmetic concerns. Enlarged veins may also be seen in the groins or thighs.
Menstrual Irregularities
Women with PCE may have heavy, painful periods.
Other Symptoms
Women with PCE commonly have increased frequency of urination, frequent bouts of constipation and diarrhea (irritable bowel), chronic pain in other parts of the body.
Procedure Details
During your consultation, our specialists will:
Pre-Procedure Evaluation
The Embolization Procedure
Post-Procedure Recovery
We'll answer all your questions and ensure you fully understand your options, even if that means we think you are better suited by procedures we don't offer.
Benefits and Risks
Typical Benefits
- •Reduction in chronic pelvic pain reported in most carefully selected patients in published series
- •Outpatient treatment
- •No surgical incisions, only a small puncture site
- •Preservation of normal pelvic structures and function
- •Durable relief for many patients, though symptoms can recur
Potential Risks
- •Rare coil migration requiring additional treatment
- •Rare allergic reactions to contrast material
- •Potential for incomplete relief requiring additional procedures
Recovery and Outlook
Recovery after ovarian vein embolization (OVE) is usually quick. Most patients resume light activities within a few days, with continued improvement in pelvic pain over several weeks.
Women treated for pelvic congestion syndrome often report improvement in pelvic pain and quality of life following embolization, though response varies between patients.
Answers to Your
Common Questions
Your physician: Zagum Bhatti, M.D.
Board-Certified Interventional Radiologist · Former Assistant Professor of VIR, UTHealth Houston
Dr. Bhatti performs minimally invasive, organ-preserving pelvic vein embolization using image guidance.
Meet Dr. Bhatti →