Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)

Uterine fibroids are the most common tumors in women of childbearing age.  For women with symptomatic uterine fibroids, UFE is an effective, safe, and minimally invasive alternative to surgery.

UFE  is performed while the patient is conscious, but sedated and comfortable. A thin catheter is inserted into the femoral artery and under x-ray guidance, the catheter is positioned into the uterine arteries. Tiny particles, the size of grains of sand, are released into the uterine arteries that supply blood to the fibroid tumor. This blocks the blood flow to the fibroid tumor causing it to shrink and die.

Light activities can be resumed in a few days and the majority of women are able to return to normal activities within 7 to 10 days.

On average, 85-90 percent of women experience significant or total relief of heavy bleeding, pain and/or bulk-related symptoms after the procedure.

You may be a candidate for uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), also known as uterine artery embolization (UAE), if you fit into any of the following categories:

• Women who are experiencing the symptoms of uterine fibroids

• Women who do not desire future fertility

• Women who want to retain their uterus, and so are pursuing hysterectomy alternatives

• Women who do not desire surgery

• Women who may be poor surgical candidates; i.e. obesity, bleeding disorders, anemia

Once you have determined that you may be a candidate for uterine artery embolization based upon the above criteria, then you will need some physician input to help you decide how best to treat your uterine fibroids. A consultation with an Interventional Radiologist (IR) will educate you on how he or she coordinates your care with an OB/GYN. The role of the IR is to be the specialist in this procedure, providing you clinical information regarding how uterine artery embolization works to treat symptomatic fibroids. The IR also serves as your immediate post-procedure contact for any questions or concerns. The IR informs your OB/GYN of the care given to you.

At SMVI, our physicians and staff are prepared to answer any question you may have, and to help you make the decision that is best for you. For a free consultation, call us at 240-412-0051.

 

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