A minimally invasive, image-guided procedure that reduces abnormal blood flow associated with chronic shoulder inflammation, without open surgery.
01
A small needle or catheter is placed into an artery supplying the hand.
02
Imaging identifies abnormal blood flow around the painful joints.
03
Embolic material is delivered to reduce abnormal inflammatory blood flow.
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The access site is closed and you are monitored before discharge.
What to expect after TAME for Chronic Hand Pain. Most patients recover quickly and return to normal activities within days.
Outpatient procedure.
You go home the same day.
Outpatient procedure.
You go home the same day.
Outpatient procedure.
You go home the same day.
Outpatient procedure.
You go home the same day.
Outpatient procedure.
You go home the same day.
How Transcatheter Arterial Microembolization (TAME) for Chronic Hand Pain
Does TAME repair the hand joint?
No. TAME does not regrow cartilage, reverse osteoarthritis, or repair structural joint damage. It is designed to reduce abnormal blood flow associated with chronic inflammation, which may help reduce pain and improve hand function.
TAME may be considered for selected patients with persistent osteoarthritis-related pain in the thumb or finger joints, especially when conservative treatments have not provided enough relief.
A steroid injection delivers anti-inflammatory medication directly into or around the painful joint. TAME works through the arterial blood supply, targeting abnormal vessels associated with chronic inflammation. Neither treatment restores lost cartilage.
The access area is numbed with local anesthesia, and medication may be provided to help you relax. You may feel a brief pinch or pressure during the procedure, but significant discomfort is not expected.
By reducing pain and inflammation, TAME may help some patients use their hands more comfortably for gripping, pinching, writing, and other daily activities. Results vary from patient to patient.
Improvement is usually gradual rather than immediate. Some patients may notice changes within the first few weeks, while pain and function may continue to improve over the following months.
TAME is intended to reduce pain and improve function, not repair structural joint damage. If surgery becomes necessary in the future, your hand specialist can discuss the appropriate options.
Arterial embolization for hand osteoarthritis is an emerging minimally invasive treatment. Early studies have shown promising improvements in pain and function, but larger clinical studies are still needed.
Coverage varies by insurance company, diagnosis, medical necessity, and plan requirements. Before treatment is scheduled, our team can verify your benefits and request authorization when required.
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5020 Commerce Dr, Bakersfield, CA 93309
Advanced minimally invasive treatments for knee pain, joint pain poor circulation, vein disease and chronic pain.
Helping patients find relief without major surgery.
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