What is greater
trochanteric pain
syndrome (GTPS)?
Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS) is a common cause of pain on the outside of the hip. It develops when the tendons and soft tissues around the hip become irritated or overloaded, often affecting the gluteal tendons. Pain is typically felt over the outer hip and can worsen with walking, climbing stairs, standing on one leg, or lying on the affected side at night.
GTPS can be particularly frustrating and debilitating. Many people find that it interferes with sleep, limits exercise, and makes everyday activities uncomfortable. In long-standing cases, abnormal tiny blood vessels form around the irritated tendons, keeping inflammation active and contributing to persistent pain.
What is embolisation for GTPS?
Embolisation for GTPS is a minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment designed to reduce chronic outer hip pain. It works by targeting the abnormal blood vessels that fuel ongoing inflammation around the tendons on the side of the hip.
The procedure is usually performed as a day case under local anaesthetic with light sedation. A specialist doctor inserts a very thin catheter through a small blood vessel, usually from the same or opposite groin, and carefully guides it to the blood supply around the painful area of the hip. Tiny particles are then used to reduce abnormal blood flow, allowing inflammation to settle over time.
The procedure typically takes around one hour, and patients go home the same day.
Important information
Who may be suitable for embolisation for GTPS?
This treatment may be suitable for people who:
- Have chronic outer hip pain due to GTPS
- Have had symptoms for several months or longer
- Have not improved with physiotherapy, injections, or pain medication
- Experience pain that disrupts sleep or daily activities
- Wish to avoid or delay surgery
It may also be an option for patients who are not suitable for surgery or prefer a non-surgical approach.
What are the benefits of embolisation for GTPS?
- Non-surgical treatment
- Targeted therapy addressing the source of inflammation
- Day-case procedure with no hospital stay
- Quick recovery and minimal downtime
- Preserves future treatment options, including surgery if needed
What is the success rate of embolisation for GTPS?
Embolisation for GTPS has a high technical success rate, meaning the procedure can be performed safely in most patients. Many people experience meaningful pain relief and improved function, often allowing better sleep and a return to normal daily activities.
As this is a relatively new treatment, ongoing research is helping to define long-term outcomes. Early clinical experience has been encouraging, particularly for patients with long-standing symptoms.
What are the risks of embolisation for GTPS?
The procedure is generally considered low risk, especially compared with surgery. Most side effects are mild and temporary.
Possible risks include:
- Temporary pain or soreness around the hip after the procedure
- Bruising or mild bleeding at the catheter entry site
- Temporary nerve irritation or numbness (uncommon)
- Allergic reaction to contrast dye (rare)
- Infection (extremely rare)
Serious complications are uncommon when performed by experienced specialists.
How long is the recovery period?
Recovery after embolisation for GTPS is usually quick and straightforward. Mild discomfort around the hip is common for a few days and occasionally for a few weeks as inflammation settles.
Most patients can:
- Walk the same day or the following day
- Return to normal daily activities within a few days
- Avoid strenuous exercise for 1–2 weeks, depending on comfort
Pain relief usually develops gradually over several weeks.
Can embolisation delay or avoid surgery?
Because embolisation does not involve cutting or removing tissue, it does not limit future treatment options. For many patients, it may help delay or avoid surgery, particularly when standard treatments have not provided adequate relief.