Fibroid Embolization

The standard treatment for uterine fibroid tumors used to be limited to a hysterectomy procedure, a highly invasive surgery that removes a woman's uterus. However, today many women are experiencing the benefits of fibroid embolization, a minimally invasive procedure that requires only a small incision for the insertion of a catheter. As an effective alternative to hysterectomy procedures, with uterine fibroid embolization, the uterus and other organs are not removed. In addition, patients can potentially experience other benefits including the following changes in the signs and symptoms of fibroid tumors:

• Decrease in menstrual bleeding from symptomatic fibroids
• Decrease in urinary dysfunction
• Decrease in pelvic pain and/or pressure
• No surgical removal of the uterus and possible need of hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
• Virtually no blood loss
• Covered by most insurance companies
• Out-patient procedure (generally 10 to 23 hours)
• More confidence with less chance of soiling events
• Overall significant improvement in patient's physical and emotional well-being

The Uterine Fibroid Embolization Procedure

Uterine fibroid embolization is the process of interrupting blood flow to uterine fibroids by blocking the flow of blood to the fibroid using an "embolic agent." The embolic agent is delivered by an interventional radiologist using a catheter running through the femoral artery. Embolic agents such as Embosphere® Microspheres are placed in the blood flow leading to the fibroid blocking the blood vessels near it. The fibroid is cut off from its oxygen supply causing it to stop growing and begin shrinking. Fibroid embolization usually takes less than an hour to complete. Clinical data shows that patients treated with Embosphere Microspheres, as an alternative to hysterectomy procedures, can expect to return to work and their daily activities within an average of 11 days. Patients treated with other embolic agents average 13 to 16 days.

Please also take a moment to learn more about the steps of fibroid embolization and what happens before, during the UFE procedure, as well as the recovery process after the treatment is completed.

Hysterectomy Alternatives

There are many different treatment options available to help cope and eliminate common symptoms of fibroids. Fibroid embolization is just one of the many non surgical options. To learn more about hysterectomy alternatives, like UFE, take time to talk with your OB/GYN about the procedures and treatment options available. To find a physician in your area, please use our physician locator.