Many women have uterine fibroids, but not all fibroids cause problems. If you have uterine fibroids that cause pelvic pain or fullness, you may benefit from treatment. At Vascular and Vein Institute of the South, the team performs uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), a nonsurgical fibroid treatment. They have locations in Germantown, North Millington, and Memphis in Tennessee, Oxford, and Senatobia in Mississippi, and West Memphis and Forest City in Arkansas. Call or book an appointment online today.
Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a procedure that blocks the blood supply to uterine fibroids, causing them to shrink. Uterine fibroids are a common gynecological condition that affects women during their childbearing years.
These fibroids vary in size and number and can go unnoticed. However, some women have fibroids that cause pelvic pain or heavy periods. They can even affect fertility or pregnancy.
Treatment for uterine fibroids varies, ranging from conservative care to surgery. Uterine fibroid embolization is a nonsurgical, minimally invasive treatment option for women with fibroids.
The team at Vascular and Vein Institute of the South determines if you’re a candidate for uterine fibroid embolization after a consultation. They typically perform the procedure for women with fibroids that cause pain or other problems, such as:
Because it’s not known how UFE might affect a woman’s fertility, the team only recommends the procedure for women who have no future pregnancy plans.
The Vascular and Vein Institute of the South team reviews the details of your uterine fibroid embolization at your consultation. They administer a sedative through an intravenous (IV) line in your arm to help you relax during the procedure.
For UFE, your vascular surgeon injects a local anesthetic near your femoral artery in the groin and makes an incision. They insert a catheter into the artery and thread it toward the uterine artery, using contrast dye and X-ray imaging.
Once at the uterine artery, your surgeon injects an embolic agent into the arteries that supply blood to your fibroids. Your surgeon removes the catheter and closes the incision. The procedure takes about 90 minutes.
You may experience some aching and pain following uterine fibroid embolization. The team recommends you limit activity during the first few days and avoid strenuous physical activity for a set period of time.
Recovery typically takes 5-10 days. Your fibroids shrink over time, and your symptoms resolve.
To find out more about uterine fibroid embolization and how it may benefit you, call Vascular and Vein Institute of the South or schedule an appointment online today.
