Uterine fibroids are most commonly found in women during their 30s and 40s and tend to shrink after menopause. African-American women are more likely than other ethnic groups to develop fibroids. Many women won’t ever develop symptoms, but those that do often find that their quality of life suffers. Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) uses image guided technology to treat painful fibroid tumors. It is a safe, effective alternative to hysterectomy surgery.

Symptoms of uterine fibroids

Symptoms include:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Pain
• Frequent urination
• Lower back pain
• Feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen
• Painful intercourse
• Anemia

UFE, an alternative to hysterectomy for fibroids

When symptoms aren’t manageable with conservative measures, doctors will often recommend a hysterectomy. However, removal of the uterus is a major surgical procedure with risks and downtime. If the ovaries are removed at the same time, women experience hormonal side effects as well. At CiC, our endovascular specialists perform a minimally invasive procedure called Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) that shrinks or destroys fibroid tumors while preserving the uterus.

What to expect

UFE is done under light sedation and using local anesthesia. Through a small nick in the skin, a catheter is inserted and guided using X-ray imaging to the arteries that feed the fibroid tumors. Tiny particles are introduced through the catheter into those arteries, effectively blocking off blood supply to the fibroids. This causes the fibroids to shrink.

Benefits of UFE

UFE is a revolutionary way to treat uterine fibroids. Benefits include:

• In-office, minimally invasive procedure
• No hospitalization required
• Preserves the uterus
• No hormone-related side effects
• Pain is manageable at home with medications
• Fully resume normal activities in a week to 10 days
• 85%-90% of women report complete relief or significant reduction in symptoms by 3 months

Call our office to learn more.