Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Uterine fibroids are benign (non-cancerous) growths in or on the walls of the uterus. They can range in size from as small as a pea to as large as a grapefruit. Fibroids are very common; it is estimated that about one out of every five women of childbearing age has them. Women with a family history of fibroids or who are of African descent are more likely to develop fibroids.
Fibroid Symptoms
For many women, fibroids cause no symptoms and require no treatment. However, for some women fibroids cause:
- Heavy and/or prolonged bleeding with monthly periods, sometimes with blood clots
- Bleeding between periods
- Anemia (fatigue caused by low red blood cell count)
- Pain or pressure between the hip bones or in the back of the legs
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Frequent urination
- Constipation or bloating
- An enlarged belly
Fibroid Treatment
If you have fibroids causing any of the symptoms above, there are several treatment options available. You should discuss your fibroid treatment options with your gynecologist or your primary care physician.
Sometimes hormonal medications can help fibroid symptoms. However, hormonal medications are not effective for everyone and when these medications are stopped, the symptoms usually return. Surgery to remove the uterus, known as a hysterectomy, is another option. In addition, surgical removal of only one or a few fibroids, known as a myomectomy, can be performed, but patients sometimes go on to develop new fibroids. For women who want a minimally invasive and permanent solution for their fibroids and who do not want surgery, uterine fibroid embolization might be right for them.
Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive option that blocks the blood supply to the fibroids, reducing menstrual bleeding and causing the fibroids to shrink. A thin plastic tube is inserted into a blood vessel at the top of the thigh through a small nick in the skin. With X-ray guidance, the tube is steered into the blood vessels that supply the uterus. Tiny particles are injected into the blood vessels that feed the fibroids. These particles block blood flow to the fibroids, which causes them to shrink.
UFE offers a shorter hospital stay and a faster return to activity when compared to hysterectomy. The procedure takes less than an hour, and most women spend just one night in the hospital and can return to light activity within a few days.
After UFE, nine out of 10 women report significant improvement in menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain and discomfort, and frequency of urination. Recurrence of fibroids after UFE is rare.
UFE is performed by interventional radiologists. Interventional radiologists are board-certified physicians with advanced training in performing minimally invasive procedures guided by imaging (such as X-ray, ultrasound, CAT scan or MRI).
For an appointment with an interventional radiologist experienced in UFE, call 410-601-WELL (9355).