TAME & Musculoskeletal Embolization

[Persistent Local Pain After Fracture Healing] [Transarterial Microembolization (TAME)] Successful Case Sharing

Author: Bow Wang, M.D.

[Persistent Local Pain After Fracture Healing] [Transarterial Microembolization (TAME)] Successful Case Sharing — related image 1
Mr. K, 36 years old, suffered a closed fracture of his left big toe three years ago. Although the fracture has healed, the affected area still experiences pain when touching external objects (such as the leather upper of shoes), affecting his standing and walking.

Mr. K has used painkillers, patches, received local injections, and undergone rehabilitation treatments, but the pain persists. He was referred by Dr. Kuo Yao-Hung of the Rehabilitation Department at National Cheng Kung University to the Interventional Clinic for further evaluation and interventional treatment.

[Persistent Local Pain After Fracture Healing] [Transarterial Microembolization (TAME)] Successful Case Sharing — related image 2
Based on imaging assessments including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the patient was diagnosed with a healed fracture and residual bone marrow edema. After discussion with Mr. K, it was decided to proceed with treatment using [Transarterial Microembolization (TAME)].

[Persistent Local Pain After Fracture Healing] [Transarterial Microembolization (TAME)] Successful Case Sharing — related image 3
Bow Wang, M.D., applied to Mr. K.A metal plate was applied to the painful area as a marker. Angiography revealed corresponding enlarged capillary-like vessels at the painful site, which were then embolized and removed.Two weeks after treatment, Mr. K's pain significantly improved, with his pain score decreasing from 8-9 to 1-2.

Bow Wang, M.D. Reminder: The main indication for 【Transarterial Microembolization (TAME)】 is a pain index exceeding 5 points, and patients who have not shown significant improvement after receiving various treatments for more than three months.

This treatment is not suitable in the following situations:

1. Severe tendon or ligament damage or rupture
2. Pain accompanied by other nerve compression symptoms, such as numbness
3. Poor kidney function (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73m2)
4. Low platelet count, abnormal coagulation function
5. The patient is unable to lie flat for two hours
6. Pregnancy

Treatment side effects include possible local hematoma and bruising at the puncture site; temporary local discoloration at the embolization site, which will improve and disappear within minutes to a month.

Bow Wang, M.D. points out that treatment with 【Transarterial Microembolization (TAME)】 requires evaluation by a professional physician before implementation. Its main effect is pain relief. Regular attention should be paid to the maintenance of joints and tendons, and adequate rest is essential. Taking care of your joints and tendons is far better than treating or treating excessive strain!

Bow Wang, M.D. Clinic Online Appointment

This page is for medical education and academic communication. It does not replace individual diagnosis or treatment advice.

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