Finding Relief with Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a proven non-surgical procedure that takes about one hour to complete,
provide symptom control comparable to surgery, but has a significantly shorter recover time than surgery.
Gynecologists often refer patients seeking UFE to interventional radiologists for a consultation.




Fibroids are common, benign (noncancerous) growths in or on the walls of the uterus. The are also called myomas or leiomyomas.
The interventional radiologist begins the procedure by making a small incision at the top of the leg near the groin area.









Next, a tiny tube called a catheter is inserted into the femoral artery at the top of the leg.
Patients receive mild sedation and a numbing agent to ensure comfort during the procedure.








The catheter is then guided into the uterine artery and a contrast-enhanced X-ray is taken to map the ateries feeding the fibroids.
Tiny Embosphere Microspheres are injected through the catheter and into the fibroids, cutting off their blood supply.








As a result, the fibroids shrink and symptoms are resolved, sparing the uterus and ovaries.