Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive treatment for uterine fibroids, which are noncancerous growths in the uterus that can cause heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and other symptoms.
HOW DOES UFE WORK:
UFE works by blocking the blood flow to the fibroids. Without blood, the fibroids shrink over time and symptoms improve.
WHAT IS EMBOLIZATION:
Embolization is a technique where your Interventional Radiologist uses tiny particles to block certain blood vessels that contribute to inflammation and bleeding.
BENEFITS OF UFE:
- It’s not major surgery, so recovery is faster (2 days-2 weeks).
- It preserves the uterus, unlike a hysterectomy.
- Can treat multiple fibroids regardless of size or location.
- Most women experience significant relief from symptoms (>90% experienced improvement in bleeding and >70% improvement in pelvic pain/congestion).
THE PROCEDURE:
- Your Interventional Radiologist makes a tiny puncture in your groin or wrist.
- A thin tube (called a catheter) is guided into the arteries that supply blood to the fibroids.
- Tiny particles (like grains of sand) are injected to block these blood vessels.
- With no blood supply, the fibroids shrink gradually over weeks or months.
RECOVERY:
- You’ll likely go home the same day or after a short hospital stay.
- Some cramping, pain, or mild fever can happen for a few days after the procedure (called post-embolization syndrome).
IDEAL PATIENTS:
- Experience moderate to severe symptoms including heavy or prolonged bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, frequent urination or constipation due to fibroid pressure, or pain during intercourse.
- Want to avoid a major surgery.
- Wish to preserve their uterus.