Q1. What is UFE?
UFE stands for Uterine Fibroid Embolization. A UFE procedure for fibroid treatment is a minimally invasive solution for symptomatic fibroids. During this procedure, a specialist will locate your fibroids using advanced ultrasound. They will then insert a tiny catheter through a very small incision. Using the ultrasound as a guide the catheter is threaded in to the uterine artery that supplies blood to the fibroid. Small particles will flow through the catheter and block the arteries and blood flow, this causes the fibroid to shrink and eventually die. The treatment takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes and is performed as an outpatient procedure.
Q2. How do I know if I am a good candidate for UFE?
If you are suffering from symptomatic fibroids and experiencing heavy, painful menstruation for more than a week, frequent urination, pelvic pain or pressure, back pain, pain in the lower legs or pain during sexual intercourse, you are a good candidate for UFE.
Q3. What is the recovery time for UFE?
UFE is a non-surgical procedure and a majority of women recover in 1-2 weeks which means less days missed at work as compared to surgical fibroid treatments.
Q4. How do I prepare for a UFE procedure?
Wear comfortable clothes on the day of the procedure. You should arrive 15 minutes earlier before the procedure. After you complete your registration, one of our interventional radiologists will give you a light sedative to help you relax before performing the procedure.
Q5. What is the success rate of a UFE procedure?
The success rate for UFE is 95%.
Q6. Is UFE a safe procedure?
UFE has been performed safely on thousands of women worldwide and has a much lower risk of complications as compared to surgical treatment for fibroids.
Q7. What can I expect after a UFE procedure?
After a UFE procedure, the fibroid tumors reduce in size and the painful symptoms gradually disappear. A majority of women experience a lighter and shorter menstrual period and their social, work and sex life improves as they are not in pain anymore.
Q8. Will I have scars on my skin after UFE?
No, there will be no scar on your skin after a UFE procedure. There will only be a tiny nick in your groin area where the catheter was located.
Q9. Is UFE is approved by FDA?
Yes, the FDA approved UFE as a procedure for symptomatic fibroids, which is many consider to be the gold standard in fibroid treatment.
Q10. Is the cost f my treatment eligible for insurance coverage?
Treatments at USA Fibroid Centers are eligible for coverage for most insurance plans. We have a dedicated insurance department to help our patients with their insurance related questions.
