PCS score* according to Prof. Nils Kucher
Do you suffer from Pelvic Congestion Syndrome?
Closure of the veins using catheter technology
To close the ovarian vein using the catheter technique, the doctor makes a small incision in the groin on the affected side. Since the vein that flows through the pelvis is connected to the ovarian vein, a catheter can be advanced via the pelvic vein to the ovarian vein. A small wire coil is inserted into the ovarian vein via the catheter and remains in the vein. This wire spiral disrupts the blood flow so that blood clots form around it. Over time, the clots lead to permanent blockage of the vein.
In technical jargon, this procedure is also known as embolization. Instead of a wire, a special liquid (e.g. high-proof alcohol) can also be injected through the catheter, which causes the vein flow to stop at this point. This technique is also called sclerotherapy. With both methods, the doctors use either X-ray fluoroscopy or ultrasound to check whether the barrier is in the right place. This procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis, which means that you can go home the same day after the procedure. The success rate with a proven diagnosis is over 80%, with most women becoming symptom-free.
Medication for varicose veins in the pelvic area
There are therapies that improve the symptoms without changing the veins. This is often achieved with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as the active ingredient ibuprofen.
The latest study results showed that hormonal therapy could be used to treat pelvic vein syndrome. The substance in question is goserelin, an injectable gonadotropin that blocks the production of testosterone and oestrogen. The doctor is apparently not only able to alleviate the symptoms as a result – an improvement in vein dilatation can also be observed during the venographic examination. However, hormonal treatment is not without side effects. For example, it can lead to weight gain, hot flushes, bone loss and mood swings. The administration of goserelin also stops menstrual bleeding. Further studies are needed to establish the effectiveness of hormone therapy.
Compression therapy for pelvic venous congestion syndrome
Another treatment option that is currently being researched is compression therapy. Studies investigated the influence of compression treatment on the symptoms and venous hemodynamics of the pelvis in patients with pelvic vein syndrome. Compression shorts and/or compression stockings were put on. Compression shorts have a tight fit and are made of a material with high elasticity. They support the muscles, promote blood circulation and facilitate mobility. They had a positive effect on four-fifths of those affected and reduced their chronic pelvic pain. The compression stockings, on the other hand, had no effect on the disease.
