Study Shows Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a Safer Alternative and Just as Effective as Myomectomy.
According to new research presented during a scientific session at this year’s Society of Interventional Radiology, uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is safer and just as effective for the treatment of uterine fibroids as a myomectomy. The minimally invasive procedure uses embolic agents to treat uterine fibroids, eliminating the pain and the long recovery time associated with surgical methods such as myomectomy. Additionally, “Women who received this minimally invasive treatment also had a slightly lower need for additional treatment than those who underwent surgery.” According to multiple studies, about 90% of patients who underwent UFE experienced complete or significant resolution of their uterine fibroid-related symptoms.
What Is Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a non-surgical procedure for treating fibroid tumors of the uterus or uterine fibroids. While fibroid tumors rarely become cancerous, they can cause heavy menstrual flow, pelvic pain, pressure on the bowel or bladder, along with other lifestyle altering symptoms.
How Is UFE Performed?
First, a small puncture is made in the femoral artery located in your upper thigh and a catheter is inserted.
An Interventional Radiologist like Dr. Adam Gropper will use a fluoroscope to deliver the embolic agents to the uterus. With the guidance of the fluoroscope, the physician injects small particles into the uterus and fibroid via a catheter. The embolic agent shuts off the arteries supplying blood to the fibroid, killing it naturally. The uterus recovers fully when the fibroids die and shrink away.
Is the Procedure Painful?
UFE is a minimally invasive procedure and although there is a small amount of pain, a local anesthetic is used to numb the puncture area.
Benefits
- The procedure is less invasive compared to myomectomy and hysterectomy.
- It requires no surgical incision.
- Unlike a hysterectomy, the uterus remains intact.
- Recovery is faster and patients can resume their normal daily activities in no time than if they had surgical fibroid treatment.
- Studies show the procedure is successful in about 90% of women.
The procedure is performed in our state of the art cath lab and patients are able to recover in the comfort of their own home, rather than an overnight stay in a hospital.
UFE is a safe and effective procedure for women with uterine fibroids. Its a high success rate and benefits, as well as low risk of complications, make it an ideal treatment for women suffering from uterine fibroids.
To learn more about uterine fibroids, download our Patient UFE Guide.