TAME (Trans-Arterial Embolisation) is a cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedure that helps manage chronic pain conditions by reducing abnormal blood flow to inflamed or degenerated tissues. This technique is based on the principle that chronic pain is often fueled by abnormal vascular supply, which sustains inflammation and nerve sensitization.
Using tiny catheters and embolic agents, TAME blocks these overactive blood vessels, reducing inflammation and interrupting the cycle of chronic pain—without the need for open surgery or long-term medication.
At CARE CHL Hospital, Indore, Dr. Alok K. Udiya, an expert in pain-targeted embolisation, offers TAME for conditions like chronic shoulder pain, knee pain, back pain, frozen shoulder, plantar fasciitis, and even chronic pelvic pain, with safe and effective outcomes.
Key Benefits of the Treatment
TAME is transforming how chronic pain is managed, especially for patients who have failed conventional therapies:
- Non-Surgical: No incisions, implants, or cutting required.
- Targets the Source: Blocks abnormal pain-mediating blood vessels, not just the symptoms.
- Outpatient Procedure: Most patients go home the same day.
- Minimal Downtime: Resume regular activities within 1–2 days.
- Drug-Free Pain Relief: Reduces or eliminates need for long-term painkillers.
- Excellent for High-Risk Patients: Especially those unfit for orthopedic surgery.
- Customizable: Tailored to the pain source (shoulder, spine, joints, pelvis, etc.)
How This Treatment Works
Painful tissues often have abnormal angiogenesis (new blood vessel growth). These vessels secrete inflammatory substances and sensitize nerves. TAME blocks this abnormal supply, leading to lasting pain relief.
1. Evaluation and Planning
A comprehensive assessment includes:
- Detailed pain history and physical exam
- MRI, ultrasound, or CT scan to localize inflammation
- Pain scoring (VAS, NPRS, or WOMAC)
- Mapping of target arteries depending on pain location
Ideal candidates:
- Patients with chronic localized pain unresponsive to medications, injections, or physiotherapy
- Those wishing to avoid or delay surgery
- Conditions like:
- Frozen shoulder
- Chronic back pain
- Osteoarthritis
- Plantar fasciitis
- Tennis/golfer’s elbow
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Sacroiliitis
2. Pre-Procedure Preparation
- Basic blood tests and renal function
- Review of ongoing medications
- No need for general anesthesia
- Fasting for 6–8 hours prior to the procedure
3. Procedure Steps
- Performed in a dedicated angiography suite
- A microcatheter is inserted into the femoral or radial artery
- The catheter is navigated to target arteries supplying the inflamed area (e.g., shoulder, spine, knee, or pelvis)
- Tiny embolic particles are injected to reduce blood flow to abnormal vessels
- Procedure duration: 45–90 minutes
4. Post-Procedure Recovery
- Observation for a few hours post-procedure
- Minimal soreness or swelling at puncture site
- Return to routine activities within 1–2 days
- Follow-up in 1, 3, and 6 months to assess response
Why Choose Dr. Alok K. Udiya for TAME?
As a leader in image-guided pain interventions, Dr. Alok K. Udiya brings skill and precision to TAME procedures.
- Over 15 years of experience in advanced embolisation techniques
- Among the first in Central India to offer pain-targeted arterial embolisation
- Expertise in complex vascular anatomy for precise targeting
- Works with pain specialists, orthopedics, and physiotherapists
- Proven results with significant pain reduction and patient satisfaction
- Personalized plans based on condition, pain severity, and lifestyle
FAQs – Trans-Arterial Embolisation (TAME)
Q1. What kinds of pain can TAME treat?
TAME is effective for:
- Shoulder pain (frozen shoulder, tendinosis)
- Chronic knee/back pain
- Plantar fasciitis
- Pelvic pain
- Sacroiliac joint pain
- Post-traumatic pain syndromes
Q2. How soon will I feel pain relief?
Relief begins within 1–3 weeks, with peak results in 6–12 weeks.
Q3. Is TAME a permanent solution?
TAME provides long-term relief, but in some cases, pain may recur. Repeat embolisation is possible.
Q4. Is anesthesia required?
No general anesthesia is required. The procedure is done under local anesthesia with mild sedation.
Q5. Are there any risks or side effects?
TAME is generally safe. Minor side effects may include:
- Bruising at puncture site
- Mild post-embolisation discomfort
- Transient inflammation or low-grade fever
Q6. Can this replace surgery or joint injections?
In many cases, yes. TAME is an excellent alternative to surgery and steroid injections, especially in chronic pain or elderly patients.
Q7. Will I need physiotherapy afterward?
Yes. Early mobility and guided rehab enhance results and long-term function.
Q8. Is the procedure repeatable?
Yes. If symptoms return over time, TAME can be repeated safely.
Q9. Is TAME used for cancer-related pain?
TAME is primarily used for benign pain syndromes. Cancer-related pain may be treated with different embolisation strategies.
Q10. Is this covered by insurance?
Many insurers now recognize TAME as a day-care interventional pain management procedure. Our team can assist with pre-authorization.