Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Uterine Fibroid Embolization: A Scarless Solution for Uterine Fibroids

By Dr. Ritu Verma, Consultant Endovascular and Interventional Radiologist at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali, Ghaziabad, India

Uterine fibroids are benign (non-cancerous) masses that develop in the uterus, often affecting women of reproductive age. While small fibroids may not require treatment, larger fibroids can lead to various symptoms such as crampy pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, increased urinary frequency, incomplete bowel evacuation, and even infertility. Traditionally, myomectomy (surgical removal of fibroids) has been the treatment of choice, especially for single or few fibroids. However, a scarless, non-surgical treatment known as Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) offers an equally successful alternative with similar recurrence rates and fewer complications.

What is Uterine Fibroid Embolization?

Uterine Fibroid Embolization is a minimally invasive technique where the blood supply to the fibroid is blocked by injecting tiny particles into the artery supplying the fibroid. This procedure does not require any surgery or incisions and is performed in a day-care setting. Once the blood supply to the fibroid is stopped, the fibroid begins to shrink. Maximum size reduction is typically seen within 3 to 6 months, resulting in the alleviation of symptoms.

How is Uterine Fibroid Embolization Done?

The procedure involves accessing a large blood vessel in the leg or groin area. Using sophisticated hardware, the uterine arteries are navigated, and the blood vessel supplying the fibroid is located. Tiny spherical embolic particles are then injected to block the blood vessel, effectively cutting off the fibroid’s blood supply.

What are the Post-Procedure Complications?

While Uterine Fibroid Embolization is generally safe, some patients may experience:

  1. Pain
  2. Thigh or groin lump/swelling
  3. Mild low-grade fever
  4. Very rare instances of non-target embolization

Success Rates

Uterine Fibroid Embolization boasts a high technical success rate of 95 to 98%. Clinically, the procedure achieves successful results in 80 to 90% of patients, making it a reliable and effective treatment for symptomatic fibroids.

Conclusion

For women seeking a non-surgical, scarless solution to uterine fibroids, Uterine Fibroid Embolization presents a promising option. With high success rates and minimal complications, this procedure can significantly improve quality of life by alleviating the discomfort and symptoms associated with large fibroids.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Dr. Ritu Verma, Consultant Endovascular and Interventional Radiologist at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali, Ghaziabad, India.

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