Is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) the Right Treatment for You?

If you’ve been diagnosed with having uterine fibroids, there are many treatment options for you to consider. Fibroids are the most frequently seen tumors of the female reproductive system and more than 99 percent of the time the tumors are benign (non-cancerous).

What is uterine fibroid embolization?

Uterine fibroid embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that shrinks uterine fibroids. They are noncancerous tumors that develop from the muscle tissue of the uterus. Uterine fibroid embolization is not a major surgery, allowing for faster recovery. You also may not need to stay in the hospital.

Uterine fibroid embolization shrinks fibroids by blocking the blood supply to them. The healthcare provider injects tiny particles (about the size of sand grains) into the arteries that supply the fibroids. The particles stick to the vessel wall. This causes a clot to develop, blocking the blood supply. Once the blood supply is gone, the fibroids shrink. Your symptoms often subside or disappear over time.

The procedure is performed by a healthcare provider known as an interventional radiologist. This provider specializes in treating conditions without using major surgery. Instead, they use small tools, along with imaging tests. These tests include X-rays, CT scans, MRI, fluoroscopy, or ultrasound. These may be used before, during, or after the procedure.

How uterine fibroid embolization works?

During UFE, an interventional radiologist makes a small needle puncture in your groin (upper leg). They insert a catheter (a thin, flexible tube) into your femoral artery, the main blood vessel that delivers blood to your lower body. A type of X-ray technology called fluoroscopy produces video images of your blood vessels to guide your doctor during the procedure.

The catheter is threaded through blood vessels until it reaches the arteries that supply blood to your uterus and fibroids. The interventional radiologist injects an embolic agent into these arteries, which blocks blood flow to the fibroids. The embolic agent may be microscopic beads, gelatinous foam, or a sand-like material. Without a blood supply, the fibroids shrink over time.

Benefits of nonsurgical fibroid treatment

Uterine fibroid embolization is one treatment for fibroids. The proper treatment for you will depend on many factors, including your age, symptoms, the size and location of the fibroids, and whether you want to get pregnant in the future. Embolization can impact fertility, making it a meaningful conversation to have with your healthcare provider.

Uterine fibroid embolization is very effective, helping to relieve symptoms for about 90 percent of women who have the procedure. It offers a variety of benefits over surgery, including:

Faster recovery
Less pain
Lower risk of complications
No hospitalization

Testimonials

The Best Reference is a Good Word.

Our vein treatments have 5-star reviews. Don’t take our word for it, hear from those who’ve experienced life-changing relief from knee pain, leg issues, and varicose veins.

Alex D.

As a fitness instructor, I was very conscious of the varicose veins in my leg. The care I received from Dr. Amir Salem, MD and his team was outstanding. I felt welcomed and supported throughout my consultation and treatment.

Joshua G.

The assessment and treatment were excellent—virtually pain-free during and after. Dr. Amir Salem, MD and his team were professional, efficient, and friendly. Easily the best experience I’ve had with medical care!

Cynthia M.

My treatment went very well—both legs are healing and responding to follow-up care. The entire process has been nearly pain-free and has allowed for a quick recovery.

Maryam J.

Friendly staff, great bedside manner, and excellent treatment overall. Everything was smooth, quick, and informative. I felt cared for before and after the procedure. Highly recommended.

Sarai P.

The staff was incredibly helpful and patient. My procedure was completely pain-free, and I felt comfortable throughout. Every question I had was answered clearly—I highly recommend Dr. Amir Salem, MD and his team.

Mary H.

This office is warm and informative. Dr. Amir Salem, MD clearly cares about his patients and took the time to answer all my questions. I left feeling confident and reassured—looking forward to continuing care here.

Who needs UFE?

Up to 80 percent of women develop uterine fibroids by the age of 50. Many women don’t have symptoms. However, for others, fibroids can make it difficult to enjoy life and perform everyday activities.

Uterine fibroid symptoms aren’t just a normal part of aging that you must accept—treatments are available. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have:

An enlarged abdomen
Anemia (low red blood cell count) and fatigue
Bloating or constipation
Difficulty getting pregnant
Frequent urination and other bladder problems
Heavy menstrual bleeding, long or painful periods, or bleeding between periods
Lower back or leg pain
Pain during sexual intercourse
Pain or pressure in your pelvis or rectum

Minimally Invasive Uterine Fibroid Treatment

Personalized Care

At Vein and Knee Pain Vascular Group, you receive treatments tailored to your needs, preferences, and future goals. We take the time to find out how fibroids are affecting your life and provide a safe, compassionate environment where you can feel comfortable.

Collaborative Approach

Interventional radiologists, gynecologic surgeons, fertility specialists, and other experts work together to plan your treatment. And no matter where you receive care, you can count on the renowned resources and capabilities of Vein and Knee Pain Vascular Group.

Minimally Invasive Options

We offer a range of ways to relieve fibroid symptoms without major surgery. In addition to embolization, we specialize in radio frequency ablation. You recover with less pain and downtime so you can enjoy life again.

What to Expect During Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Vein and Knee Pain Vascular Group is an outpatient clinic providing minimally invasive endovascular procedures in a safe, convenient, and comfortable environment. We may do imaging exams such as an ultrasound or MRI before uterine fibroid embolization. These tests help us evaluate the fibroids, locate the uterine arteries, and plan treatment.

We may ask you to discontinue taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, several days before embolization. You can continue taking birth control pills or other hormonal treatments that ease fibroid symptoms. Your healthcare provider will tell you when it’s safe to stop these medications after your procedure. An interventional radiologist performs embolization in an operating room or catheterization lab. The procedure typically takes between one and three hours.

Schedule your Consultation to qualify Today!

Speak with the experts. We are committed to delivering high-quality services that heal and transform lives.

Name

Phone

Insurance Provider

Zip Code