
For those exploring fibroid treatment options, Uterine Fibroid Embolization (also called Uterine Artery Embolization) provides numerous advantages and a well-documented safety profile. We will explain many benefits of this procedure while also help to understand, the manageable risks. Weighing the risk and benefits can help ease some of the worry and give you the knowledge to make educated decisions about your health.
What is UFE?
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is an outpatient non-surgical procedure that alleviates fibroid symptoms. A catheter is inserted through a small pencil-size puncture in the wrist or groin that uses real-time x-ray called fluoroscopy to help guide the catheter into the uterine artery that supplies blood to fibroids. Embolic particles are injected into the artery to block the blood flow causing them to shrink. Without a steady supply of oxygenated blood, the fibroids begin to starve and die. The injected embolic material remains in the blood vessels at the fibroid site; therefore, the likelihood of the same fibroid returning to its normal size is rare. UFE is also able to treat multiple fibroid sizes and locations.
This FDA-approved treatment is an effective solution for treating fibroid symptoms. Due to the fact that this a targeted treatment, only the fibroids are affected, meaning the uterus and ovaries are left completely intact. The UFE procedure takes about 30 to 45 minutes depending on the number of fibroids that are needed to be treated.
UFE Benefits
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) offers a safe and highly effective alternative to traditional surgical treatments, such as a hysterectomy. It’s an excellent option for women seeking relief from fibroid symptoms without undergoing major surgery.
- No hospital stay
- No general anesthesia or stitches
- Shorter recovery than surgery
- Uterus Preservation
- No interference with hormones
- Symptom Relief
- Regulate periods
- Long-term effectiveness
- No interference with surrounding organs
- Lower risk of complications
UFE offers a safe and highly effective alternative to traditional surgical treatments, such as a hysterectomy. It’s an excellent option for women seeking relief from fibroid symptoms without undergoing major surgery.
Schedule your initial appointment online
UFE Risks & Complications
While UFE is an extremely safe procedure, like any medical intervention, it’s essential to be aware of potential complications. Fortunately, many are manageable, rare and often temporary.
- Post-Embolization Syndrome (PES)
Some women experience mild fever, nausea, or pain in the days following the procedure. These symptoms are temporary and can be managed effectively with medication and rest. PES is a normal part of the healing process and typically resolves within a few days. - Rare Infections
Infections are uncommon but treatable with antibiotics if they occur. Your medical team will provide guidance on recognizing and addressing any signs of infection. - Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions to the contrast dye used during imaging are rare and manageable with prompt medical care. If you have a history of allergies, your doctor will take precautions to minimize this risk. - Temporary Ovarian Dysfunction
UFE may temporarily impact ovarian function, leading to a brief reduction in activity for most women. However, ovarian function typically returns to normal within a month. During this period, you might experience temporary menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes.
UFE Complications vs. Other Fibroid Treatments
At the Society of Interventional Radiology’s 2019 Annual Scientific Meeting, they presented that their studies had concluded that UFE had fewer post-procedure complications when compared to surgical procedures like myomectomy. Myomectomy is the surgical removal of fibroids through an incision in the lower abdomen. Myomectomy requires the use of general anesthesia, as well as stitches.
Their study analyzed 950 fibroid patients from January 2008 until December 2014. Half of the study underwent Uterine Fibroid Embolization and the other half went through myomectomy. It was found that “after an average seven-year follow up, the study found that women who underwent myomectomy had a higher rate of postprocedural complications, including a 2.9 percent rate of blood transfusion, which was significantly higher than the 1.1 percent rate for those who were treated using UFE.”
Due to UFE’s minimally invasive nature, this lower risk of complication is due to the fact that Interventional Radiologists utilize the body’s natural pathways, the arteries, rather than making any major incisions. UFE does not require general anesthesia, which boasts even more potential risks. If you have had adverse reactions to anesthesia, have diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney problems, lung condition, sleep apnea, neurological disorders, or are obese, UFE may provide patients with a less risk option when it comes to avoiding complications.
USA Fibroid Centers – Your UFE Experts
For many women, UFE represents a transformative solution that bridges the gap between effective treatment and preserving quality of life. By working closely with USA Fibroid Centers and their team of interventional radiologists, patients can explore this innovative procedure and make informed choices that align with their needs.
References
- https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/03/190325080502.htm
- https://www.webmd.com/women/uterine-fibroids/news/20080104/fibroid-embolization-good-outcomes#1
- https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/tv6671
Related Articles
Learn More About Your Fibroid Risk Factors