Uterine
fibroid embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive treatment
for fibroid tumors of the uterus. The procedure is also sometimes
referred to as Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE), but this term is less
specific and, as will be discussed below, UAE is used for conditions
other than fibroids.
Fibroid
tumors, also known as myomas, are benign tumors that arise from the
muscular wall of the uterus. It is extremely rare for them to turn
cancerous. More commonly, they cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pain in
the pelvic region, and pressure on the bladder or bowel.
In
a UFE procedure, physicians use an x-ray camera called a fluoroscope to
guide the delivery of small particles to the uterus and fibroids. The
small particles are injected through a thin, flexible tube called a
catheter. These block the arteries that provide blood flow, causing the
fibroids to shrink. Nearly 90 percent of women with fibroids experience
relief of their symptoms.
Because
the effect of uterine fibroid embolization on fertility is not fully
understood, UFE is typically offered to women who no longer wish to
become pregnant or who want or need to avoid having a hysterectomy,
which is the operation to remove the uterus.
UFE Vs Myomectomy
