You may be unaware that you have them, but as many as 3 out of 4 women do. Uterine fibroids typically do not cause problems and are often detected by physicians during routine pelvic exams because the woman simply felt no symptoms. These growths may lead to complications, however, such as anemia from heavy blood loss. If this occurs, or if sudden, sharp, severe abdominal pain ensues, uterine fibroid embolization is a treatment option. 

What is uterine fibroid embolization?
Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a non-surgical treatment option that involves cutting off the blood supply to the growths. This technique is showing success in shrinking the fibroids, and in turn, lessening the symptoms some women feel. An outpatient procedure offered at NFRH, UFE is proving to be successful and has shown to have a much quicker recovery time than other treatment alternatives.

What will happen if I chose to have UFE?
UFE is considered an outpatient procedure and typically takes just a few hours of your time. Here are some steps you can expect:

• You will be given a sedative through an IV and some sort of anesthesia prior to the procedure.
• The area where the catheter is to be inserted will be shaved and cleaned.
• Once the area has been numbed, the physician (most likely an interventional radiologist) will insert the catheter and inject a contrast material to help provide visibility of the uterine arteries.
• Once the fibroids are located, the physician will inject the embolic agent until blood flow in the uterine arteries feeding the fibroids is blocked.
• The catheter is then removed and pressure is applied to the area where it was inserted. It is then covered with some sort of dressing.

*In most cases, both uterine arteries can be treated during a single catheter insertion.

What are some of the benefits of UFE?
Many women are deciding to treat their fibroids through uterine fibroid embolization. This option is appealing for various reasons, including:

• UFE is less invasive than open surgery for a hysterectomy;
• No incision is made; UFE involves making a minor cut that requires simply a band aid;
• Quick return to normal activities;
• Minimal blood loss;
• UFE offers a more permanent option than hormone therapy; with therapy, once hormone treatment ceases the fibroids typically grow back.

What are some of the risks of UFE?
Like any procedure, surgical or not, there are risks involved. These risks range from infection or bruising as a result of the catheter to allergic reactions to the contrast material. It is important that you discuss your medical history with your physician prior to undergoing uterine fibroid embolization. This active participation in your healthcare should help you achieve the most positive results possible.

Get more information on Uterine Fibroid Embolization from the Radiology Society of North America.