Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive procedure to shrink noncancerous tumors in the uterus called uterine fibroids. A Fluoroscopy (Imaging technique) is done to trace and examine uterine fibroids. This procedure shrinks fibroids by blocking their blood supply. A doctor injects tiny microscopic particles into the arteries that block the supply of blood to the fibroids. Once the blood supply is restricted, the fibroids in the uterus begin to shrink.
Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths in the uterus that appear during the woman’s childbearing years.
SYMPTOMS
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Severe abdominal pain
- Pressure on the bladder or bowel
- Frequent urination
- Difficulty emptying the bladder
- Constipation
- Backache or leg pain
CAUSES
Some of its causes include:
- Genetics: Fibroids may run in families, suggesting a genetic component to their development.
- Hormone Changes: Estrogen and progesterone, two hormones that stimulate the development of the uterine lining during each menstrual cycle in preparation for pregnancy, promote the growth of fibroids.
- Age: Uterine fibroids are more common in women in their 30s and 40s, suggesting that hormonal changes during this time may contribute to their development.
- Obesity: Women who are overweight or obese are at an increased risk of developing uterine fibroids.
- Ethnicity: Women of African descent are more likely to develop uterine fibroids than women of other ethnicities.
- Diet: A diet high in red meat and low in fruits and vegetables may increase the risk of developing uterine fibroids.
It's important to note that many women with uterine fibroids have no symptoms and may not require treatment. However, if symptoms are present, treatment options may include medication, surgery, or other procedures to shrink or remove the fibroids.
Women who don't prefer removing the uterus by hysterectomy procedure OR rather want a painless, scarless & non-open surgery in Chandigarh can opt for a uterine fibroid embolization procedure from Medfin!
Before Uterine Fibroid Embolization:
- Consult with your doctor: It is essential to discuss the procedure with your doctor to understand its benefits, risks, and potential outcomes. Ask your doctor any questions you may have about the procedure, so you are well-informed.
- Medical evaluation: Your doctor will evaluate your medical history and perform a physical examination. They may also order blood tests, imaging tests, or other diagnostic tests to ensure you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
- Medication management: Your doctor may advise you to stop taking certain medications before the procedure. For example, blood thinners such as aspirin or warfarin may need to be discontinued.
- Fasting: You may be advised to fast for a few hours before the procedure, usually around six hours. This will reduce the risk of complications during the procedure.
- Arrange for transportation: You will be unable to drive after the procedure, so arrange for someone to take you home after the procedure. You will also need help at home while you recover.
During Uterine Fibroid Embolization:
- Anesthesia: You will be given anesthesia to help you relax and reduce any pain or discomfort during the procedure. This may be local anesthesia, where only the area around the groin is numbed, or general anesthesia, where you will be asleep during the procedure.
- Catheterization: A small catheter is inserted into an artery in your groin and threaded up to your uterus. X-rays may be taken to ensure the catheter is in the correct position.
- Embolization: Small particles are then injected through the catheter into the arteries that supply blood to the fibroids. The particles block the blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink and die over time.
After Uterine Fibroid Embolization:
- Recovery: After the procedure, the catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to the insertion site to prevent bleeding. You will be taken to a recovery room to be monitored until the anesthesia wears off.
- Follow-up: You will need to follow up with your doctor after the procedure to ensure the fibroids have shrunk and to monitor any potential side effects or complications.
The UFE procedure typically takes 1-2 hours to complete, and most patients are able to go home the same day or the following day. Recovery time varies, but most patients can return to their normal activities within 1-2 weeks. It is essential to follow your doctor's instructions carefully and thoroughly to ensure a successful procedure and quick recovery.
More than 90% of people who’s had a uterine fibroid embolization in the past, experience a partial or full recovery. Some of its benefits & risks include.
Benefits:
- It is performed under local anesthesia and you can return home the same day.
- Less recovery time
- No large incisions
- Low risks and complications when compared to other invasive procedures.
- Less invasive than other minimally invasive procedures for uterine fibroids.
Risks:
- Infection: Inserting a catheter (thin tube) can damage blood vessels in the surrounding area causing an infection.
- Allergic reaction: The use of X-ray dye to mark the affected region during the procedure can cause an allergic reaction.
- Loss of menstrual periods: This happens rarely. About 5% of women experience loss of menstrual cycles post uterine fibroid embolization. It is recommended to get uterine fibroid embolization done by an experienced Interventional Radiologist. Talk to a Medfin expert now!
- Recurrence & Infertility: In rare cases, uterine fibroids could return post-UFE procedure or you could even lose the ability to get pregnant.
Get treated by some of the best yet most experienced doctors in Chandigarh! Our team of Interventional Radiologists are 15+ years certified and trained surgeons who have extensively treated uterine fibroids for more than a decade. Our surgeons suggest the most advanced surgical procedures in Chandigarh that are painless, scarless, and ensure a speedy recovery. Think Surgery!! Think Medfin !!
