Uterine Fibroid Embolization

What is uterine fibroid embolization (UFE)?

Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive treatment for uterine fibroids. It safely and effectively shrinks fibroids by blocking the blood flow to the fibroids.

For women with mild to severe symptoms, UFE may be an option instead of surgical treatment, like a hysterectomy, for the treatment of fibroids. An interventional radiologist typically performs the outpatient procedure.

What is uterine
fibroid
embolization (UFE)?

Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive treatment for uterine fibroids. It safely and effectively shrinks fibroids by blocking the blood flow to the fibroids.

For women with mild to severe symptoms, UFE may be an option instead of surgical treatment, like a hysterectomy, for the treatment of fibroids. An interventional radiologist typically performs the outpatient procedure.

Who is a candidate for uterine fibroid embolization?

UFE is recognized as a safe and effective treatment for uterine fibroids by the American Academy of Family Physicians. UFE is often recommended for anyone who is experiencing painful symptoms from fibroids and who wants to avoid surgery, like a hysterectomy.

UFE also targets all fibroids in the uterus, regardless of fibroid size, making it effective for people with only a few fibroids and those with many uterine fibroids.

An ideal candidate for UFE is any woman who is not currently pregnant and is experiencing symptoms, such as excessive heavy bleeding, cramping, pelvic pain, bloating, or frequent urination.

What are the benefits of uterine fibroid embolization?

There are many benefits to treating uterine fibroids with UFE:

• Minimally invasive, same-day procedure

• No overnight stay needed, so you can recover at home

• No incisions needed, so it does not cause scarring

• Faster recovery time and reduced risk of infection compared to surgery

• Can treat multiple fibroids at one time

• Requires only conscious sedation

• Can preserve your uterus, unlike a hysterectomy

• Easily and quickly schedule an appointment at an outpatient center

Uterine Fibroid Diagnosed

Find a specialist who treats uterine fibroids

If you have been diagnosed with uterine fibroids, know that a hysterectomy is not your only option. Our physicians specialize in treating uterine fibroids using UFE.

The interventional radiologists and clinical staff at our outpatient vascular centers combine medical expertise and compassion to guide you through your uterine fibroid treatment journey, providing relief and getting you back to your daily routine quickly.

At our center, we work every day to deliver far more than our patients expect. We bring our full range of medical capabilities and service excellence to every patient, every visit at our centers.

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Request a UFE appointment

UFE is a minimally invasive treatment option that shrinks uterine fibroids. To make an appointment, schedule one online or call 844.833.2273

Frequently Asked Questions about UFE

How is uterine fibroid embolization performed?

UFE is performed under conscious sedation. A small catheter is inserted into the groin or wrist and threaded up through the blood vessels to the uterine arteries. Tiny, medical-grade synthetic particles are then injected into the uterine arteries to block the blood supply to the fibroids. The procedure takes about one hour and is performed in an outpatient setting.

What is the success rate of uterine fibroid embolization?

The average success rate is approximately 90%, according to the results of several UFE studies. After five years, about 80% of patients are asymptomatic. In four out of five patients, it is not necessary to have a hysterectomy or other treatment for uterine fibroids.

What are the risks and side effects of uterine fibroid embolization?

Although UFE is very safe and carries less risk than surgery, any medical procedure has some potential side effects or risks. Most women experience moderate to severe pain and cramping during the first several hours after the procedure, and some also experience nausea and low-grade fever. All of these can be successfully controlled with appropriate pain medications. It is uncommon to have a low-grade fever, mild nausea, and malaise for more than three to four days after the embolization. In a minimal number of cases (3-4%), infection is a complication. These infections can usually be controlled with antibiotics. Serious complications occur in fewer than 1% of the procedures, and a hysterectomy is needed.

Is UFE covered by insurance?

Yes, most insurers cover uterine fibroid embolization.