Treatment of Uterine Fibroids

The UFE procedure is a minimally invasive procedure performed by a Vascular Interventional Radiologist (VIR). Using x-ray guidance, the IR threads a catheter through a tiny incision in your wrist or groin. Once the catheter is in place, the IR sends tiny particles through it to block the small blood vessels that feed blood to the fibroids. Without a blood supply, the uterine fibroids shrink. They may disappear completely, or they may shrink to the point where you no longer experience symptoms.

The UFE procedure usually takes from one to three hours. After the procedure, a nurse will bandage your incision and you will be on bed rest for up to 3 hours. You may stay overnight in the hospital for observation. Following UFE, you may experience moderate pelvic cramping and nausea, which can be controlled with medication.

You should be able to return to your usual activities in seven to 10 days. As the fibroids break down, you may have occasional vaginal bleeding that may last a couple of weeks, but in some cases, it can last for several months.

To find out more visit: The fibroid fix: What women need to know.