Uterine fibroid embolization, sometimes called uterine artery embolization (UAE), is a minimally invasive alternative to surgical fibroid treatments like hysterectomies. It uses safe, proven non-surgical techniques to shrink fibroids and alleviate their symptoms.
Jump to:
What is UFE? | Getting Ready for a UFE Procedure | Benefits of UFE | Common UFE Questions
UFE procedures are typically completed in an ambulatory setting, like the interventional suite at our New Jersey interventional radiology clinic. Before beginning the treatment, patients are given conscious sedation to maximize comfort without the risks of anesthesia.
Once the patient is sleepy and relaxed, a specialist called an interventional radiologist threads a catheter through the circulatory system until it reaches the fibroid. At University Radiology, this procedure can often be performed through a small access point in the wrist rather than the groin, which may provide greater comfort and allow for easier recovery after treatment.The catheter is used to place tiny, body-safe beads into the fibroid’s blood vessels, blocking them from getting oxygenated blood. Without oxygen, the fibroids shrink, and patients experience symptom relief.
The entire process takes less than two hours and just one small incision. In many cases, patients can go home the same day; others stay overnight and are discharged the following day.
Before your appointment, you may receive specific instructions, such as medications to pause and when to stop eating and drinking. It’s also important to inform your clinician if you:
Uterine fibroid embolization is a safe, proven alternative to a hysterectomy with high success rates. In fact, up to 89% of patients showed a substantial decrease in heavy menstrual bleeding after a UFE procedure.1
Uterine fibroids are the most common noncancerous tumor found in women, with a 70-80% lifetime occurrence rate, though not all fibroids are symptomatic. The likelihood of developing fibroids increases with age until menopause, after which it declines.
Uterine fibroid embolization is available to patients with symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding or pelvic pain that may not want or qualify for surgery. However, patients who are pregnant, have certain infections, and those with suspected cancer should not pursue UFE. To learn if UFE is right for you, talk to one of our specialized interventional radiologists.
While all medical procedures carry some inherent risk, UFE is a well-tested treatment option with a low risk of complication. Our experienced clinicians will discuss all potential risks with you before your procedure, and can answer any questions you may have.
UFE is highly effective and can shrink fibroids 39-60% within the first 5 years. Up to 89% of patients reported a significant decrease in symptoms following their procedure.
The UFE procedure itself takes 1-2 hours on average. Most patients are sent home the same or next day.
UFE treatments are performed by interventional radiologists. These doctors are specially trained to perform minimally invasive procedures during highly selective fellowships, completed after a diagnostic radiology residency.
Uterine fibroid embolization is often covered by employer health insurance plans, as well as Medicaid and Medicare. For information on specific coverage, we encourage you to speak directly with our staff.
Recovery from UFE takes most patients 2-4 weeks. You may experience some abdominal pain or cramping for several days after undergoing UFE, which can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Some spotting is normal, though you should see a marked decrease in menstrual bleeding following the treatment. Temporary, mild nausea and a low-grade fever are common UFE side effects, but you should call your care team if your fever is over 101 degrees Fahrenheit.
Evidence suggests that treated fibroids continue to shrink long after a UFE procedure. However, new fibroids can grow and may require additional treatments.4
To discuss your care, reach out to our friendly NJ radiology clinic staff at 908-874-9236.
References: