Preparing for an embolization procedure helps patients feel more informed about their treatment plan. Before your procedure, our providers will review important details about your health history, medications and the specific procedure being performed.
Your Checklist for Preparing for an Embolization Procedure
A successful procedure starts with careful planning. Preparing for an embolization procedure may include reviewing your medications, discussing your medical history, following fasting instructions and arranging transportation if sedation is used.
Embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that uses image guidance to treat certain medical conditions by reducing blood flow to a targeted area. During the procedure, our interventional radiologists use a small catheter inserted through a tiny incision and guide it through the blood vessels to the treatment area. Specialized materials are then delivered to help achieve the desired treatment outcome.
Review Your Medications Before the Procedure
As part of preparation, patients should make sure our medical team is aware of all medications, supplements and allergies. Our physicians will provide specific instructions based on your individual health needs and the type of procedure you are receiving.
Following your provider’s medication instructions before the procedure can help support a safe and smooth treatment experience.
Follow Fasting Instructions
When preparing for an embolization procedure, be sure to follow any eating and drinking instructions provided by our care team. These guidelines will depend on your treatment plan and whether sedation is used.
Following these instructions helps our interventional radiologists and care team provide the safest possible experience.
Plan Transportation After Your Procedure
Transportation planning is another step. If sedation is used during your procedure, you may need someone available to drive you home after treatment.
Our providers will discuss what to expect after your procedure and provide guidance based on your specific treatment and recovery needs.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Knowing what to expect is a key part of preparing for an embolization procedure. During the procedure, our interventional radiologists use advanced imaging technology to carefully guide the catheter through the blood vessels to the treatment area.
The catheter allows our physicians to deliver specialized materials that reduce blood flow to the targeted area. Because it’s minimally invasive, it often allows treatment without the need for traditional surgery.
Preparing for Recovery After Your Procedure
Your recovery experience depends on the type of procedure performed and your individual health needs.As you are preparing for an embolization procedure, our providers will review recovery recommendations and explain any activities that may need to be adjusted after treatment.
Many minimally invasive procedures are designed to reduce discomfort and recovery time compared to traditional surgical approaches.
Why Choose MCR for Care?
At Medical Center Radiologists, preparing for an embolization procedure begins with guidance from experienced interventional radiologists who specialize in advanced image-guided procedures. MCR provides minimally invasive treatments designed to deliver precise care while prioritizing patient comfort and safety.
Our team uses advanced imaging technology to perform a variety of procedures that help diagnose and treat medical conditions through minimally invasive techniques.
Types of Procedures Offered at MCR
We offer several procedures designed to provide minimally invasive, image-guided treatment for a variety of conditions. These procedures work by carefully reducing blood flow to a targeted area to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. MCR’s interventional radiology team provides options including Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE) for uterine fibroids, Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) for enlarged prostate symptoms, Hemorrhoidal Artery Embolization (HAE) for symptomatic internal hemorrhoids, and Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) for chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis.
Preparing for an embolization procedure begins with understanding the type of treatment you will receive. Each procedure is performed using advanced imaging guidance and minimally invasive techniques. For women’s health, UAE targets blood flow to uterine fibroids to help shrink them and relieve symptoms without major surgery. For men’s health, PAE reduces blood flow to the prostate to help decrease prostate size and improve urinary symptoms. HAE treats internal hemorrhoids by blocking the arteries supplying the hemorrhoids, while GAE targets blood vessels associated with inflammation in the knee to help reduce pain and improve mobility.
Preparing for an Embolization Procedure
At Medical Center Radiologists in Hampton Roads, VA, preparing for an embolization procedure can help you feel confident and ready for your procedure. By understanding your treatment plan, following our provider’s instructions and knowing what to expect, you can take an active role in your care.
With the right approach, patients can approach their procedure with greater understanding and confidence while receiving advanced care from our team.