Transarterial musculoskeletal embolization versus platelet-rich plasma for greater trochanteric pain

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This single-center, single-blind randomized controlled trial will enroll adults with clinically and radiologically confirmed greater trochanteric pain syndrome who have failed at least three months of conservative therapy. Participants are randomized 1:1 to receive either transarterial musculoskeletal embolization (TAME) using a temporary reabsorbable agent (Nexsphere-F®) performed by interventional radiology or a single ultrasound-guided autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection into the affected gluteal tendon. A blinded nurse will perform follow-up assessments of pain, function, quality of life, and safety at baseline and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. The primary endpoint is pain reduction on the Visual Analog Scale, with secondary endpoints including functional improvement and adverse events.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Diagnosis of GTPS confirmed by clinical and imaging assessments
* Persistent symptoms despite at least 3 months of conservative treatment (e.g., physical therapy, NSAIDs)
* Willingness to participate and provide informed consent
* Availability for follow-up assessments at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months post-treatment

Exclusion Criteria:

* Prior hip surgery or other interventions (e.g., joint replacement, prior PRP injections or embolization)
* Severe osteoarthritis (Tonnis III)
* Active lumbar radiculopathy with pain, numbness, or weakness in a dermatomal distribution
* Contraindications for PRP injections (e.g., active infection, coagulopathy, antiplatelet or anticoagulation therapy,
* Pregnancy or breastfeeding
* Severe comorbidities that would interfere with participation
* Active cancer or other malignancies

Where it's running

• Unidade Local de Saúde do Alto Ave
  Guimarães, Portugal Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Pedro M M Lopes, MD — Unidade Local de Saúde do Alto Ave
• Study coordinator: Pedro M M Lopes, MD
• Email: mail@pedromarinholopes.pt
• Phone: +351965676431

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.