Hip Embolization for Chronic Hip Pain
Minimally Invasive Relief for Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) from Hip Bursitis or Osteoarthritis
Joint & Vascular Institute
What is Hip Embolization?
At Joint & Vascular Institute, we offer hip embolization, an advanced, minimally invasive procedure for patients suffering from Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) due to hip bursitis and hip osteoarthritis who have not found relief through physical therapy or conservative treatments (i.e. steroid injection).
This procedure targets the lateral femoral circumflex artery (LFCA) to reduce inflammation and pain in the hip joint—without surgery or prolonged recovery time.
Find lasting relief from chronic hip pain with this cutting-edge treatment.
Get Help for Hip Pain Symptoms
How Hip Embolization Works
GTPS from bursitis and hip osteoarthritis often involve abnormal blood vessel growth, leading to chronic inflammation and persistent pain. During hip embolization, our expert interventional radiologists:
- Identify the abnormal blood vessels contributing to hip pain
- Use tiny, medical-grade beads to block these vessels, reducing inflammation
- Preserve healthy blood flow while targeting the painful area for lasting relief
This precise, image-guided approach minimizes discomfort and enhances mobility, allowing you to return to daily activities with less pain and greater ease.
Leading Expertise in Vascular & Interventional Care
At Joint & Vascular Institute, we are committed to providing cutting-edge, patient-centered care. Our board-certified vascular and interventional radiologists utilize state-of-the-art imaging technology to ensure precise and effective embolization treatments. Our team follows the latest advancements in the field, including research pioneered by Dr. Okuno, a leading figure in embolization techniques. His work has contributed significantly to the understanding and refinement of embolization procedures for musculoskeletal conditions.
Benefits of Hip Embolization
Hip embolization offers several advantages over traditional treatments:
Minimally
Invasive
No large incisions or hospital stay required with average procedure time around 30 minutes.
Targeted
Pain Relief
Directly addresses the inflamed joint structures.
Quick
Recovery
Most patients resume normal activities within days.
Long-Lasting
Results
Many experience significant pain reduction for months or even years.
No Surgery
Needed
Ideal for those who are not candidates for hip surgery.
Joint & Vascular Institute
Am I a Candidate for Hip Embolization?
You may be a good candidate for hip embolization if you:
- Have chronic hip pain from GTPS or osteoarthritis that has not improved with therapy
- Are not a candidate for surgery or prefer a non-surgical approach
- Seek a faster recovery with minimal downtime
Find out if hip embolization is right for you.
Results & Clinical Evidence
Recent studies, including a midterm follow-up on 31 patients, have demonstrated significant pain reduction with hip embolization.
Clinical Study Results
- 64.5% of patients had GTPS associated with hip osteoarthritis
- 21 treated joints reported little to no pain post-procedure (VAS 0–3)
- Only 2 minor complications were reported, both resolving within 30 days
Academic Level Care.
Just Next Door.
From your first consultation to every step of your treatment, our providers bring advanced expertise and a personalized approach that puts you first.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hip Embolization, and how does it work?
Hip Embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces chronic hip pain by targeting abnormal blood vessels associated with GTPS and hip osteoarthritis.
The procedure involves inserting a catheter into the lateral femoral circumflex artery (LFCA) and injecting tiny embolic agents (such as microspheres or antibiotic beads) to block abnormal blood flow, reducing inflammation and pain.
Source: Giordani, C.B. et al. (2025). Arterial Embolization of Joint Synovitis: The Latino Registry. CardioVascular and Interventional Radiology.
What are the expected results of Hip Embolization?
Studies show that hip embolization significantly reduces pain for many patients:
- In a study of 31 patients (38 treated joints), 64.5% had osteoarthritis along with GTPS
- On follow-up, 21 joints had a pain score (VAS) of 0–3, indicating minimal to no pain
- Only 9 joints showed no improvement, and two patients reported minor complications, which resolved within 30 days
How long does it take to recover from Hip Embolization?
Recovery is much faster than traditional hip surgeries. Most patients:
- Experience reduced pain within a few days to weeks
- Return to normal activities in a matter of days
- May need mild pain management post-procedure, but no hospital stay is required
Are there any risks or side effects of Hip Embolization?
Hip embolization is considered safe, but like any procedure, there are potential risks, including:
- Mild discomfort at the catheter insertion site
- Temporary numbness or tingling in the thigh (reported in two study patients, resolved within 30 days)
- Rare cases of embolization affecting non-target blood vessels, though advanced imaging minimizes this risk
Source: Giordani, C.B. et al. (2025). Arterial Embolization of Joint Synovitis: The Latino Registry. CardioVascular and Interventional Radiology.
Personalized, Expert Care at Joint & Vascular Institute
Our specialized interventional radiologists take a personalized approach to every treatment. We assess your condition, discuss your goals, and create a tailored plan to maximize your pain relief and mobility.
Take the Next Step
Schedule a Consultation Today
If chronic hip pain is limiting your mobility and quality of life, hip embolization may be the solution you’ve been looking for. Contact our Libertyville office today to schedule a consultation and explore this advanced, minimally invasive treatment.
Regain comfort. Restore mobility. Live pain-free.