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Uterine Fibroid Embolization


Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) blocks the blood supply to fibroids, causing them to shrink.  It is clinically proven to reduce the major symptoms of fibroids, including pain, excessive and prolonged bleeding, and frequent urination.  UFE is minimally invasive, requiring only a small nick in the skin.  The procedure lasts less than 1 hour and patients return to work in an average of 11 days.  UFE is performed by an interventional radiologist, a doctor who uses X-rays and other imaging techniques to see inside the body and treat conditions without surgery.

Uterine Fibroids and Their Symptoms
Fibroids are benign, non-cancerous growths in or on the walls of the uterus, or womb.  They can range from less than one ince around to more than six inches.  African-American women and those with a family history are more likely to develop fibroids.

Most fibroids cause no symptoms, and are only discovered when a woman has a routine pelvic examination.  If you do experience fibroid symptoms, they may include:
  • Heavy, prolonged monthly periods, sometimes with clots
  • Anemia (fatigue due to low red blood count)
  • Pain or pressure between the hip bones or in the back of the legs
  • Pain during sexual intercourse
  • Frequent need to urinate
  • Constipation or bloating
  • An enlarged belly

If you suspect you have fibroids, your doctor should conduct an ultrasound or other imaging tests to be certain.


Deciding on UFE
If you need treatment to fibroid symptoms butr want to avoid surgery, UFE may be right for you.  Your gynecologist can provide a referral to an interventional radiologist who can help you decide based on your medical history and the size oand location of your fibroids.

Patients who are ideal for UFE include women who:
  • Have symptomatic fibroids
  • Do not intend to get pregnant in the future
  • Want to keep their uterus
  • Do not want surgery
  • Want an overnight or outpatient hospital stay
  • May not be good candidates for surgery

Benefits of UFE
  • Shorter hospital stay
  • Return to work faster
  • Fewer complications (after 30 days)

For more information regarding UFE or to schedule a consultation, please contact our office at (585) 241-6628.