A Closer Look into Uterine Fibroids Embolization

Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive technique that safely eliminates fibroids and relieves their symptoms. The procedure involves your specialist blocking the blood supply to the fibroids, making them shrink. After the treatment, your menstruation will return to normal if it is heavy. Uterine fibroid embolization Houston, TX, is FDA-approved and effective in over ninety percent of all treated patients. It does not involve surgery hence less hospital stay and a short recovery period. You are most likely to see UFE results within three months, and fibroids usually continue to shrink for six to nine months or more.

What makes you a good candidate for UFE?

You may qualify for UFE if you want to avoid surgery, retain your uterus, have completed childbearing, and seek a safe alternative to a hysterectomy. You may not be a good candidate for UFE if you have an active pelvic infection, certain uncorrectable bleeding issues, endometrial cancer, extremely large fibroids, or a desire for fertility preservation.

How should you prepare for UFE?

Before UFE, your doctor may recommend you undergo an MRI or ultrasound of the uterus to examine your fibroids’ size, number, and location. The evaluation will also help your doctor determine if you qualify for the treatment. You may also have a pregnancy test to ensure you are not pregnant. Ensure you tell your doctor all medications or herbal supplements you may be taking. Your doctor may tell you to stop taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications or blood thinners before the treatment. Tell your doctor any allergies you might have, especially to anesthesia.

What happens during the UFE procedure?

During the uterine fibroids embolization procedure, your doctor numbs your groin region and makes a small incision about the size of the tip of a pencil. The specialist then inserts a thin catheter into the artery at your groin or waist, guiding it to the fibroid’s blood supply. The doctor sends tiny particles known as embolic agents through the catheter, effectively blocking the blood flow to your fibroids. The particles remain in the blood vessels, resulting in the fibroids softening, bleeding less, and shrinking in size.

After placing the embolic agents, your doctor removes the catheter and applies pressure to stop bleeding. The doctor may use a closure device to seal the small hole in the artery, allowing you to move around more quickly. The tiny incision will be covered with a dressing. The entire UFE procedure takes about ninety minutes.

What should you expect after the UFE procedure?

You will most likely go home the same day after your UFE treatment. You may experience cramping and pain a few days after the procedure, but your doctor will prescribe medications to manage the effects. Fever can also occur, but you can treat it with acetaminophen. Most women resume light activities after a few days and regular duties within a week. Your fibroid symptoms start to improve within three months. Your doctor may recommend an MRI after six months to check for symptom improvement.

UFE is a minimally invasive technique that shrinks and eliminates fibroids by blocking blood flow. The treatment has minimal risks and involves a short recovery period. Schedule an appointment at Alate Health for UFE to effectively eliminate your fibroids.