Uterine Fibroids
Non-surgical treatment for uterine fibroids • Minimally invasive • Shorter recovery times • Outpatient procedure
What are uterine fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are noncancerous tumors that develop in the uterus. While they are quite common and typically benign, they can lead to problematic symptoms if they grow large or if there are many of them. Symptoms might include severe menstrual bleeding, discomfort in the pelvic area, or pressure on the bladder or intestines, particularly in cases of large or numerous fibroids.
What is Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), also known as Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE), is a well-established, minimally invasive technique for alleviating symptoms associated with uterine fibroids. Studies indicate that UFE achieves up to a 90% success rate in addressing these symptoms. Additionally, UFE is recognized as an effective method for managing symptoms of uterine adenomyosis. Offering advantages over traditional surgical approaches, UFE is associated with a lower risk of certain complications and necessitates shorter recovery periods. Our team, comprised of skilled interventional radiologists, is dedicated to delivering exceptional care and achieving optimal results for our patients.
How is UFE performed?
This technique involves a minimal incision, no larger than the tip of a pencil, made at the wrist or groin. Through this small entry point, the physician accesses the vascular system and guides a slender catheter into the uterine blood vessels using x-ray imaging for navigation. Tiny particles are then delivered through the catheter to obstruct the blood supply to the uterus, leading to the fibroids’ gradual reduction in size and the alleviation of symptoms over the ensuing weeks.
Uterine Fibroid Embolization is typically an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to return home about two hours post-treatment. It circumvents the need for general anesthesia, utilizing local anesthetics and intravenous sedation along with advanced techniques for nerve blocking to ensure patient comfort during the procedure.