Learn More About Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)
Treating fibroids highly depends on their size, shape, and associated symptoms, but one of the most successful forms of treatment for removing fibroids is uterine fibroid embolization. Also called uterine artery embolization, UFE relies on radiography techniques to shrink and destroy the fibroids without highly invasive methods. This type of treatment is an alternative to hysterectomies and myomectomies and can be used for women who do not wish to go through invasive surgeries to remove their fibroids. At FibroidOne, our specialists are able to perform UTE sessions and help remove fibroids through consistent, compassionate treatment.
Why Is Uterine Fibroid Embolization Performed?
For women who have fibroids or adenomyosis, UTE is an alternative surgery that works to preserve the uterus while also treating the uterine lining. As an effective treatment, this procedure is used for women who do not wish to treat their fibroids with hysterectomies, do not plan to get pregnant, and have not reached menopause. UTE can treat intramural, subserosal, and submucosal fibroids, or fibroids that typically exist along the walls of the uterus, exist inside the uterine cavity, and along the outer wall of the uterus. While UFE isn’t recommended for all types of fibroids, UFE can treat most fibroids within one session.
Uterine Fibroid Embolization is considered a highly effective treatment, as about 85 to 90% of women experience significant or total relief from symptoms such as heavy bleeding, pain, and uterus enlargement. It’s especially effective for multiple or large fibroids and presents many benefits for women with fibroids, including:
- Presents an alternative to hormone therapy
- A minimally invasive alternative to hysterectomies
- Preserves the uterus, cervix, and ovaries
- Significantly improves your quality of life
However, UFE isn’t for everyone, as fibroids can return after successful treatment, and in rarer cases, complications can occur, including:
- Uterine Infection: As the most serious risk, infections in the uterus can lead to hysterectomies, as an infected uterus can be life-threatening.
- Premature Menopause: These symptoms more commonly appear for women over the age of 40.
- Loss of Menstruation: Also called amenorrhea, losing menstruation can happen due to the treatment of the uterine lining.
- Scar Tissue Formation: In other cases, scars can form along the uterine lining, which can lead to long-lasting pain and pressure.
How is Uterine Fibroid Embolization Performed?
During treatment, an interventional radiologist performs the procedures by supplying small catheters into the arteries that supply the fibroids with blood, and through releasing microspheres, it blocks the arteries and deprives the fibroids of blood. The fibroids over time decrease in size alongside the uterus, and then once the process is complete, the puncture site is bandaged, and then a follow-up appointment is scheduled. The process typically lasts between one to two hours and can be performed as needed. Over time, the fibroid will break down and pass through the vaginal opening, which can last between 6 weeks to 3 months. If you would like to learn more about UFE procedures, contact FibriodOne to schedule an appointment with us.
