Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Part 2: Technique and Follow-Up

In this episode, Dr. Mark Meissner and Dr. Michael Cumming join Dr. Michael Barraza to discuss techniques for treating Pelvic Congestion Syndrome. We examine their goals for therapy and why to approach the internal iliac veins first. We discuss which catheters they use and how to approach venograms in a therapeutic way, rather than diagnostic.

We share a new technique for coiling that reduces procedure time and pain for the Pelvic Congestion Syndrome patient. We discuss the challenges of embolization and why we often rely on the sclerosant when using an occlusion balloon. Dr. Meissner and Dr. Cumming tells us about the post-procedure management, why to follow-up after the first menstrual period, and why to make foam using CO2 when a patient has a history of migraines.

We examine the verbiage of the name “Pelvic Congestion Syndrome” and how it leads to misconceptions about its etiology. Dr. Meissner shares his process for treating Nutcracker Syndrome, and we discuss the potential problems of renal vein stenting.