Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), sometimes also called Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE), is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat symptomatic uterine fibroids. The procedure is performed by an Interventional Radiologist and is usually done as an outpatient procedure. A small skin nick is made in the groin area to insert a catheter into the femoral artery. An x-ray technique called fluoroscopy, combined with an iodine based dye, is used to advance the catheter to the uterine arteries which supply the uterus and fibroids. Tiny occlusive beads are then injected into the arteries, thus blocking the blood supply to the fibroids. The fibroids, devoid of their blood supply, then die and shrink, reducing the annoying symptoms of heavy bleeding, pain and cramping, and bulky bloating. Because there are no incisions, the recovery time is generally very short– one week in most cases. To learn more about the UFE experience, please see our section on Patient Information or visit www.ask4ufe.com