Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)

UFE is a new method of treating fibroid tumors. The procedure is similar to that used in heart catheterization. A catheter is placed in the uterine arteries and small particles are injected to block the blood supply to the fibroids, causing the fibroid tissue to die and shrink.

Q : What is uterine fibroid ?
A : Uterine fibroid is a non-cancerous tumor of uterus. The size varies from tiny to more than 10 inches in diameter. Most fibroids grow within the wall of the uterus. Some fibroids grow out from outer surface of the uterus or into the cavity of the uterus.

Q : What are the symptoms ?
A : Generally no symptoms. About 20% of fibroid patients require treatment depending upon the position, size and number of fibroid tumors present.

These are some of the common presenting symptoms:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Pelvic pain, back pain or leg pain
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Pressure effects e.g. frequent urination or constipation

Q : How is uterine fibroid diagnosed ?
A : By pelvic examination and radiological imaging i.e. ultrasound

Q : What are the treatment options ?
A : Fibroids can be treated with different methods such as anti-inflammatory medication, contraceptives and hormones or surgical interventions i.e. Myomectomy, Hysterectomy or Uterine Fibroids Embolization

Q : Who are candidates for UFE ?
A : Most fibroid patients are able to undergo UFE treatment, especially those who are in high risk of hysterectomy (is there another word for this high risk group?). UFE is an alternative to fibroid treatment conserving the uterus.

Q : What are the benefits ?
A :

1. The procedure is minimal invasive, leaving only a small scar.
2. General anesthesia is not required
3. Blood loss is minimal
4. Shorter hospital days than hysterectomy
5. Short recovery time

Q : How is the procedure performed ?
A :

1. The intervention radiologist makes a small cut in the skin (3 mm.) and inserts a catheter into femoral artery injecting radiographic contrast material to map the blood vessels.
2. The catheter is then placed into the uterine artery that is supplying blood to the fibroids. Then tiny plastic particles (Polyvinyl Alcohol), each about the size of a grain of sand, are injected until the blood flow to the fibroids is blocked.

Q : What are the complications ?
A : Patients may experience pelvic cramps, nausea and vomiting as well as low grade fever. These symptoms are usually controlled by pain medication.

Q : What is the outcome ?
A : 90% satisfaction rate. Most patients will recover from the effects of the procedure within one week and will be able to return to their normal activities. The symptoms of fibroids will be gradually subsiding.