Uterine Fibroid Embolization: Advanced Uterine Fibroid Treatment
Fibroids are generally benign uterine growths made up of muscle and fibrous tissue. Also known as leiomyomas, their size can range from asymptomatically small to softball sized. Uterine fibroids are quite common, with around 70-80% of women developing them by age 50.
Uterine fibroids can manifest in various ways, though the exact cause of fibroids has not yet been medically determined. They might cause symptoms such as excessive menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, frequent or urgent urination, and even infertility. However, not all women with fibroids experience symptoms, and their presence might not be suspected until a routine pelvic exam or imaging tests.
Treatment for uterine fibroids depends on symptom severity, the size and location of the fibroids, and the desire for future fertility. Treatment options can include monitoring the fibroids and administering medications to help manage symptoms. In more severe cases, medical interventions like UFE treatment in Atlanta, might be recommended or necessary.
While certain surgical procedures like myomectomy (removal of the fibroids) or hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) might be appropriate in some cases, the overwhelming majority of patients benefit from a non-surgical approach called uterine fibroid embolization (UFE).
We’ll take a detailed look at uterine fibroid embolization.
What Is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)?
UFE is a non-surgical technique for treating symptomatic fibroids. This method obstructs the fibroids' blood supply, leading them to shrink and eventually die. UFE offers an alternative to traditional surgical procedures for treating fibroids, such as hysterectomy or myomectomy.
During the UFE procedure in Atlanta, a radiologist uses imaging techniques to guide a catheter to the arteries supplying the fibroids. Small embolic particles are introduced into the arteries to inhibit blood flow. Interfering with the blood supply deprives the fibroids of oxygen and nutrients, which causes them to die off over time.
Advantages of Uterine Fibroid Embolization
UFE is typically an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to go home on the same day.
The treatment is done under local anesthesia, so patients are awake but may be given medication to help them relax.
Compared to surgery, UFE has several advantages, including shorter recovery time, fewer complications, and preservation of the uterus.
The success rate of UFE is approximately 85%. Studies have demonstrated a significant reduction in fibroid size, symptom improvement, and high patient satisfaction rates. UFE is considered a safe and durable alternative to surgery for many women with symptomatic fibroids.
Further benefits of UFE include the following
- Widely covered by medical insurers
- Helps prevent pregnancy complications
- Fast symptom relief
- Lower risk of complication compared to surgery
- No scarring
- Minimal downtime
Drawbacks of Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Certain patients might not be good candidates for UFE. These include the following
- Patients whose fibroids do not cause symptoms
- Patients suffering from uterine, cervical, or ovarian cancer
- Patients with disorders of the vascular system
- Patients with compromised kidney function
UFE has a remarkably low rate of complications, but the potential for side effects should be considered before the procedure. Complications can include unintended embolization of adjacent blood vessels, injury to the uterus, passage of fibroids, and premature menopause.
Who Is a Suitable Candidate for Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
Candidates for UFE are typically those whose symptoms have not responded to conservative treatments like medication or hormonal therapy.
Patients must be in good physical condition before having UFE. Health disorders like kidney disease, heart disease, and certain cancers could render a patient ineligible for UFE.
Dedicated Georgia Fibroid Specialists
The caring staff at Georgia Fibroids proudly offers UFE in Atlanta for symptomatic fibroids. If you are experiencing debilitating uterine fibroid symptoms, please get in touch with us today to schedule a thorough evaluation.
