Radiological Procedures

Uterine Fibroid Embolization

A Minimally Invasive Approach to the
Treatment of Uterine Fibroids

About the Procedure

Prior to undergoing UFE, a consultation will be held with the physician. During this visit, which will include a medical history and physical examination, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasound test may be performed. If it is determined that UFE is the appropriate procedure, an appointment will be scheduled.

During the procedure, you will be given pain medication and an intravenous sedative. Then a small catheter, or tube, will be inserted through an artery near your groin, which will allow small plastic particles to be passed through to block the flow of blood to the fibroid.

After the UFE is complete, you will rest for several hours, and then will be sent home later that day or after an overnight admission with the necessary medications. While some patients experience symptoms of pain, fever, nausea and lethargy for a number of days following the procedure, some may experience some or no symptoms. These side effects are almost always related to the destruction of the fibroids, and are not due to infection or complications.

Complications from UFE are rare, and most patients resume normal activities, including work, in as little as three days.

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Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Careers