Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) also known as uterine artery embolization (UAE) is a minimally invasive technique for the treatment of uterine fibroids. Uterine fibroid embolization is performed by skilled interventional radiologist along with a gynecologist. Uterine fibroid embolization is mostly indicated in premenopausal women who do not wish to get pregnant in the future. Uterine fibroid embolization is a fairly low risk procedure as it does not require major surgical intervention.
What is the principle of uterine fibroid embolization procedure ?
The principle behind uterine fibroid embolization is occlusion of the blood vessels supplying the uterine fibroids to restrict their growth, causing their shrinkage so that they themselves can shed from the wall of the uterus.
What are the indications for uterine fibroid embolization procedure ?
Uterine fibroid embolization is mainly indicated for uterine fibroids which are the cause of heavy bleeding, painful cramps and discomfort in premenopausal women. Uterine fibroid embolization is a rather safe procedure as it does not require administration of general anesthesia and a major surgical procedure.
When is uterine fibroid embolization procedure contraindicated?
Uterine fibroid embolization is not indicated when the patient is allergic to any radiologic intervention (contrast material), women who want to get pregnant in the future and women who have suspicion of uterine or cervical cancer.
Are you a suitable candidate for uterine fibroid embolization procedure ?
If you are experiencing heavy bleeding during and apart from your menstrual cycle which is associated with severe cramps and discomfort, it is essential to seek opinion of a specialist preferable a gynecologist and obstetrician who would do a complete evaluation of your symptoms and overall health. Adjuncts like ultrasonography, MRI scan can be done if uterine fibroids are suspected. There are various modalities of treatment of uterine fibroids such as medication, surgical options and other interventions. Uterine fibroid embolization is a type of radiologic interventional technique which is performed by trained radiologists. After your complete evaluation the treating specialist will suggest if uterine fibroid embolization is the choice of treatment for you. The decision of getting uterine fibroid embolization done is dependent on doctors evaluation of your condition and your analysis of risks and benefits of the procedure.
Does uterine fibroid embolization procedure require administration of anesthesia ?
The procedure requires administration of local anesthesia and sedatives to make the procedure pain free and to make you calm and relaxed during the procedure.
What happens during uterine fibroid embolization procedure ?
Uterine fibroid embolization is a specialized technique for treating uterine fibroids. It is also considered as a minimally invasive procedure as it does not require a big surgical incision or procedure. Uterine fibroid embolization is performed by trained radiologists and the procedure includes administration of sedative to calm your mind and put you to sleep during the procedure. The treating doctor will make you lie on you back on a flat operating table. The site of the procedure is in the upper thigh near the groin are where a catheter ( a thin flexible tube) is inserted in the femoral artery. A contrast material is injected via the catheter for radiologic visualization of the extent of the catheter. The catheter is made to reach the uterine arteries (right and left or both) as they supply blood to the uterine fibroids. Once the catheter is positioned a solution of polyvinyl alcohol is inserted via the catheter into the target arties which results in occlusion of blood flow to the fibroids. The entire procedure of Uterine fibroid embolization takes about one to three hours.
What are the risks of uterine fibroid embolization procedure ?
Uterine fibroid embolization is a rather safe procedure. The possible risks include infection and bleeding at the site of intervention. Other risks may include amenorrhea or menopause, but that is usually observed in women above 40 years of age. Occasional damage to the ovaries may result in difficulty in conceiving in the future. Rare complications include damage to the bladder and bowels.
What to expect after a uterine fibroid embolization procedure ?
After the procedure of uterine fibroid embolization the patient is monitored for any post operative complications like bleeding or pain. Intravenously pain medication may be administered to relieve the pain. Vaginal bleeding may occur after the procedure which indicates that the fibroids are getting detached from the uterine wall and are removed via the vagina. The patient is usually asked to go home a day after the procedure. The doctor might ask you to restrict yourself from engaging in heavy exercises, lifting weights and doing sports till you have completely recovered. Routine follow ups are essential to check if the fibroids are completely removed or not. Uterine fibroid embolization is a minimally invasive interventional technique for the treatment of uterine fibroids. It is primarily indicated in premenopausal women who do not want to have a pregnancy in the near future. Uterine fibroid embolization is also the choice of treatment for patients that are not advised major surgical operations for fibroid removal. Appropriate consultation with a specialist is necessary to evaluate if uterine fibroid embolization is the best suited for treatment of your uterine fibroids. Occasionally the uterine fibroid embolization procedure may be followed by a hysterectomy or a myomectomy if the symptoms are not completely cured.
How to find and reach gynecologists for fibroid treatment ?
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Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
