have you been diagnosed with uterine fibroids?
Do you experience heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, or discomfort?
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) – may be your answer
Uterine fibroid embolization
This procedure involves injecting microscopic spherical particles into the arteries supplying the fibroids. This is typically done through a small incision in the wrist while patients are comfortably sedated. Patients are typically discharged the same day with medications for pain control and are follow-up.
what are uterine fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. They vary in size from too small to be seen with the naked eye to large masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus. Some women with fibroids have no symptoms at all, while others may have symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged menstrual periods, pelvic pressure or pain, frequent urination, difficulty emptying the bladder, constipation, and backache or leg pains.
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive treatment used to treat fibroids. It’s performed by interventional radiologists, who are physicians specially trained in minimally invasive, targeted treatments. UFE is performed while the patient is conscious but sedated — drowsy and feeling no pain.
what to expect during the procedure (UFE)
First, you’ll be given a local anesthetic to numb the area and a sedative to help you relax.
We’ll then make a small incision in the skin over your femoral artery, which is in your upper thigh.
Using real-time imaging for guidance, we’ll insert a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into this incision and guide it into the uterine arteries that supply blood to the fibroids.
Once the catheter is in place, we’ll inject small particles (embolic agents) into these arteries. These particles block the blood flow to the fibroids, which causes them to shrink and die.
The entire procedure typically takes between 1 and 3 hours, and you’ll likely be able to go home later the same day.
WHY SHOULD YOU CONSIDER UFE?
“At Houston Vascular Care, we specialize in UFE, a safe and effective procedure that treats uterine fibroids without surgery.”
Some of the benefits of Uterine Fibroid Embolization are as follow:
No surgery, no incisions.
Quick recovery and minimal downtime.
Preservation of the uterus.
Long-lasting results.
With our team of expert interventional radiologists, advanced technology, and personalized care, we are dedicated to improving your well-being.
At Houston Vascular Care, we’re committed to providing personalized, cutting-edge treatment options for your health needs. Our highly skilled and experienced team is ready to guide you through every step of the process, answering all your questions and ensuring you’re comfortable with the treatment plan. Don’t live with the pain and inconvenience of fibroids any longer; reach out to us today and let us help you regain control over your health and your life.
Embrace Life Again with UFE—Minimize Discomfort, Maximize Living.
Fibroids are benign growths (not cancer) that grow in the uterus and are very common in women. Having fibroids does not increase your risk of cancer. Unfortunately, these growths can cause symptoms that affect quality of life.
This is an effective alternative to surgery that preserves the uterus, cervix and ovaries. Also, there are no big incisions which leads to decreased recovery time and limits complications. There is quick return to normal activity.
Excessive bleeding during menses, anemia, pelvic pain and heaviness, bowel and bladder disturbances, enlarged uterus, interference with sex, infertility.
This is typically an outpatient procedure performed under sedation in our surgical center. The procedure is performed via the arteries, typically a tiny incision at the wrist, and the blood supply to the fibroids is blocked. Patient’s are typically discharged the same day with pain medication.
Surgery such as hysterectomy and myomectomy
Hormonal Medications
In our practice, which includes board certified Ob/Gyns and Vascular Interventional Radiologists, we bring our expertise to provide optimal treatment for each individual patient.
Fibroids without any symptoms do not require treatment. Symptoms that may occur include excessive/frequent bleeding or pelvic pain as well as symptoms related to abnormalities related to bowel or bladder function.
Most insurances will typically cover uterine fibroid embolization. Please contact us for additional details and to set up a consultation.
Most women with symptomatic uterine fibroids are good candidates for UFE. However, the best way to determine if UFE is right for you is to schedule a consultation with one of our interventional radiologists, who will review your medical history and perform any necessary imaging tests.
Recovery time varies from patient to patient, but most women are able to return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks. You may experience some cramping, fatigue, and mild fever during the first few days after the procedure. Our team will provide you with detailed post-procedure care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
While UFE is designed to preserve the uterus, its effects on fertility are still being studied. Some women have successfully conceived after UFE, but it’s important to discuss your fertility concerns with our specialists. They will help you weigh the benefits and potential risks based on your individual circumstances.
Most women begin to notice symptom improvement within a few weeks after UFE. The fibroids will continue to shrink over the following months, and you can expect to see significant relief from symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain within 3-6 months.