Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Treatment of uterine fibroids using modern interventional radiology techniques.
Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a non-surgical, image-guided procedure used to treat benign (non-cancerous) tumors in the uterus. A catheter is inserted through a small incision in the groin and guided to the uterine arteries, where tiny particles are injected to block the blood vessels feeding the fibroids, causing them to shrink and symptoms to improve.
Fibroids are benign tumors that arise from the muscular wall of the uterus, and their growth is influenced by female hormones. They may cause symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, frequent urination, constipation, and sometimes fertility or pregnancy problems.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and does not require general anesthesia. Most patients can return home the same day or the next day. The procedure preserves the uterus and is an alternative to surgery or surgical removal of fibroids.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most accurate method for diagnosing fibroids and planning treatment. UFE is suitable for most women who have symptoms and want to avoid surgery or preserve fertility.
Understanding Uterine Fibroid Embolization
This video explains the embolization procedure, what to expect, and how it helps treat uterine fibroids.
Benefits
- Minimally invasive procedure without large incisions
- Preserves the uterus
- Shorter recovery time compared to surgery
- High effectiveness in relieving symptoms for most women
- Performed under local anesthesia
- Lower complication rate than surgery
Frequently Asked Questions
What are uterine fibroids?
They are benign (non-cancerous) tumors that arise from the muscular wall of the uterus, common in women of reproductive age and may cause symptoms such as heavy bleeding and pelvic pain.
What is uterine fibroid embolization?
It is a minimally invasive procedure that blocks the arteries feeding the fibroids, causing them to shrink and symptoms to improve. It is performed by an interventional radiologist using image guidance.
Who is a suitable candidate for this procedure?
Women who have symptoms and want to avoid surgery or preserve their uterus. An MRI is typically performed to confirm the diagnosis.
How is the embolization performed?
A small catheter is inserted through the groin into the uterine arteries, then tiny particles are injected to block the blood vessels feeding the fibroids. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia.
Is the procedure painful?
Most women experience mild to moderate pain or cramping after the procedure, which is managed with pain medication and resolves within days.
What is the recovery period after embolization?
Most women can return to normal activities within a week. Hospital stay typically does not exceed one night.
Does embolization affect fertility?
The procedure preserves the uterus, and many women have successful pregnancies afterward. It is important to discuss fertility desires with your doctor.
What are the risks or complications?
The procedure is generally safe, but rare complications may include infection, bleeding, or injury to the uterus or ovaries.
How effective is embolization?
It is effective in relieving symptoms in about 85-90% of women, with significant improvement in bleeding and pain.
How do I prepare for the procedure?
You may be asked to fast before the procedure and stop certain medications. Your doctor will give you specific instructions and may request some tests.
More about Uterine Fibroid Embolization
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amrmahmoud@med.asu.edu.eg
amr.radiology@gmail.com
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Dr. Amr Mahmoud
- Professor of Interventional Radiology at Ain Shams University
- Fellow at François Rabelais University – France
- Member of the European Society of Interventional Radiology
- Member of the European Society of Interventional Neuroradiology and Neurointervention
- Head of Interventional Radiology and Neurointervention Department at Al-Arabi Hospital
- Consultant of Interventional Radiology and Neurointervention at Gamal Abdel Nasser Hospital
- Consultant of Interventional Radiology and Neurointervention at Police Authority Hospitals and Railway Hospital
- Visiting Consultant at International Medical Center and Saudi German Hospital