Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Uterine fibroid embolization, or UFE, targets the abnormal fibroid blood supply which causes the fibroid to shrink. UFE avoids surgery, can preserve your uterus, control symptoms, and improves quality of life. Approximately 9 out of 10 women who undergo uterine fibroid embolization will experience significant symptomatic improvement.
Under X-ray guidance and sedation, an interventional radiologist guides a very thin catheter, about the size of a strand of spaghetti, into the specific arteries supplying blood to the fibroid. Once the catheter is in the proper position, the doctor releases small particles into the targeted arteries which causes the fibroid to shrink. When the embolization is completed, the catheter is removed.
In order to minimize discomfort, patients are given medication before, during and after the procedure to reduce inflammation and help alleviate procedure-related pain. Patients can typically resume most normal daily activities within 24 hours following embolization.
Following UFE, some women may experience discomfort relating to post-embolization syndrome, including pelvic pain, cramping, nausea, low-grade fever, fatigue and discomfort. These symptoms generally resolve within 2-7 days.
Depending on the location and size of the fibroid some women may also have some vaginal discharge for 1-2 weeks after the procedure. This occurs because the tissue of the fibroid is dying and may slough off into the endometrial cavity.