What you need to know about:

Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Fast Fact

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Worth It Rating

Average Cost:

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Recovery Period:

No downtime

Permanence:

Depends on patient condition

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Doctors

Time it takes:

1-3 hours

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Anesthetize:

Local Anesthesia

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Overview of

Uterine Fibroid Embolization

in Thailand

Uterine fibroid embolization (also known as uterine fibroid embolization - UFE) is a procedure where an interventional radiologist uses a catheter to deliver small particles into the uterine arteries to block the blood supply to fibroids, causing them to ‘starve’ and shrink. Uterine fibroids are benign, noncancerous growths within or on the muscular walls of the uterus that range in size from ¼-inch to the size of a cantaloupe. They are relatively common and affect 20 percent to 40 percent of women of child-bearing age. The symptoms of uterine fibroids include; heavy, prolonged menstrual periods, premenstrual pelvic pain and menstrual cramping, pelvic pain and/or pressure, back, flank or leg pain, urinary frequency or incontinence and gastrointestinal symptoms, such as constipation or bloating.

Goals of

Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Uterine fibroid embolization is performed to treat the bleeding, pain and other symptoms of uterine fibroid tumors. It is much less invasive than open surgical techniques employed to remove fibroid tumors.

Price of

Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Average Cost

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Price Range

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Pros and cons of

Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Pros

-UFE is minimally invasive and considered safe

-Recurrence after embolization has not occurred. This is one of its major advantages over myomectomy, where fibroids which have been surgically removed often grow back.

-It can be performed on an outpatient basis

-Allows for faster recovery; usually return to work in seven to 10 days

-Lower overall financial costs compared to other procedures

-UFE may also allow maintenance of fertility. Several studies have shown that women have become pregnant and given birth to healthy babies after undergoing UFE.

Cons

-10 percent to 15 percent of patients do not respond to embolization

-Pelvic pain that can last up to several days following the procedure

-Premature ovarian failure, which occurs in 1 to 2 percent of patients

-Allergic reactions to iodinated contrast or other medications -Injury to tissues near the uterus, which is rare

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How it works:

Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Uterine embolization generally takes one to two hours. It is generally performed under a local anesthesia, which numbs the groin area, usually combined with intravenous sedation. Although in some cases a general anesthesia may be used. During the procedure the Interventional Radiologist makes a 3-4 mm. cut in the skin at the groin. A catheter is inserted into the femoral artery. Radiographic contrast material is injected to allow mapping of the blood vessels as the catheter is threaded through the uterine arteries. Tiny particles are injected into the uterine arteries blocking blood flow to the fibroid tumors. Once completed the skin puncture is cleaned and bandaged.

Preparation before

Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Pre - treatment

You will be given information about the procedure and its risks and benefits. You will likely need to undergo a physical examination that includes blood tests and a chest x-ray. Please let your doctor know about all medication that you are taking as some may need to be stopped before the procedure, such as anticoagulants like aspirin, Plavix, and warfarin. You may need to avoid all food and water for at least six hours before the procedure, or as recommended by the doctor. The skin on your groin will be prepared for the procedure.

Recovery after

Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Post - treatment

You should rest for at least 24 hours after the procedure. Drink plenty of water and eat normally. Leave the bandage on for at least eight hours. If there is any bleeding at the site of the procedure, inform a nurse immediately and lie flat on your back. If you experience numbness or coldness, or if the limb where the procedure was done changes color, inform a nurse immediately

Risks & side effects

The risks of uterine fibroid embolization are low. However, as with any surgery, there are risks, including the possibility of: Infection requiring antibiotics and in some cases hospitalization Excessive bleeding during or after surgery Ovary damage, scar tissue formation and infertility Reaction to the anesthesia Short term allergic reaction or rash Temporary suspension of the menstrual cycle Risks can be reduced by following the Radiologist's instructions before and after the procedure.

FAQs:

Uterine Fibroid Embolization

What are the recommendations for travel?

After you are discharged, it is recommended that you stay at a hotel close to the hospital for at least two days for convenience in traveling to the hospital if any complications arise after the procedure.

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Am I an eligible candidate for this procedure?

The best candidates for uterine embolization are women who suffer from pain, bleeding or other symptoms caused by the presence of uterine fibroids. The Gynecologist & Radiologist will make the final determination of each patient’s eligibility for the procedure after an examination and consultation with the patient.

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How long does it take fibroids to shrink after the procedure?

Fibroids begin to shrink immediately after the UFE procedure, and continue to shrink throughout the next year. Many women note improvement in their bleeding symptoms immediately following the procedure, but it can take up to 3 months for fibroids to shrink enough for women to notice major symptom improvements.

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Will embolization keep new fibroids from forming?

Recurrence after embolization has not occurred. This is one of its major advantages over myomectomy, where fibroids which have been surgically removed often grow back.

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Will this procedure affect my fertility and ability to have children?

Women have conceived after embolization. In fact we know of no patient who could become pregnant before embolization who could not after this procedure. Women have successfully carried babies to term after embolization. Ask your doctor about the risks to fertility associated with major surgery such as myomectomy before deciding upon embolization.

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