Is UFE right for me?
Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a groundbreaking, minimally invasive treatment approach that obstructs the blood supply to the fibroids, causing them to recede and eventually disappear.
While UFE offers extraordinary advantages to most patients experiencing symptomatic fibroids, there are conditions where UFE might not be the optimal approach. The Mayo Clinic, for example, describes a variety of treatment options and medicines for this condition.
The team at Texas Endovascular can answer the question, “Is UFE right for me?” If you are one of the candidates for UFE, our specialists can administer this effective treatment.
What does UFE involve?
UFE is a non-surgical fibroid treatment. It blocks blood flow to the uterine arteries, which supply blood to the uterus.
During the procedure, a small incision is made into the femoral artery in the groin area, and a catheter is inserted into the artery and guided to the uterine artery. Tiny embolic materials are then delivered through the catheter to stop the blood flow to the uterus's fibroid tissues.
The particles cause the fibroids to shrink and the symptoms associated with them to improve.
Who are good UFE candidates?
If you're exploring fibroid treatment options, UFE may be the right choice for you. So, who benefits from UFE?
Many women with symptomatic fibroids are unaware of minimally invasive options like UFE because hysterectomy is often the only treatment presented. However, UFE provides a safe and effective alternative, allowing you to preserve your uterus while avoiding major surgery.
Are you asking, “Is UFE right for me?” We can help you learn more about UFE candidacy. You may be a good candidate for UFE if:
- You have symptomatic fibroids. If you’re experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic discomfort, frequent urination or pressure in the lower abdomen, UFE offers a non-surgical solution for relief.
- You want to preserve your uterus. Many women seeking fibroid treatment are not informed about uterus-preserving options. UFE is a highly effective alternative to hysterectomy or myomectomy for those who wish to maintain their uterus and fertility and avoid invasive surgery.
- You cannot undergo surgery. If underlying health conditions make traditional surgery a high-risk option, UFE provides a minimally invasive alternative that doesn’t require general anesthesia or an extended recovery period.
- You prefer a less invasive treatment. UFE is an outpatient procedure with a quicker recovery time compared to surgical options, making it an excellent choice for women seeking a faster return to daily activities.
- Previous treatments haven't worked. If you've tried medications or hormonal therapies without success, UFE could be the next step in finding long-term symptom relief.
Other UFE candidates include those who want to avoid the longer hospital stays and complications associated with traditional fibroid surgeries.
Who Doesn't Qualify for UFE?
Uterine fibroid embolization isn’t appropriate for everyone. Here are some examples of people who should avoid this procedure.
- Patients who have fibroids but no symptoms. Individuals who have fibroids but do not have any symptoms are not the best candidates for UFE. This procedure aims to relieve symptoms like pain, heavy bleeding or discomfort caused by fibroids. Therefore, those without such symptoms might not need this non-surgical fibroid treatment.
- Pregnant patients. Pregnancy is a special time that demands specific care for both mother and baby. For the safety of both the mother and the developing baby, we do not advise UFE for pregnant women as it could pose risks.
- Patients with cancer. Individuals who have been diagnosed with uterine, endometrial or cervical cancers are not candidates for UFE.
- Patients experiencing a current, recent or long-standing pelvic infection. Pelvic infections can increase the chances of serious complications during the procedure. Additionally, they might disrupt the healing process after UFE. Resolving the infection is crucial before considering treatment for fibroids.
- Patients with kidney function disorders. The dye used during UFE can strain the kidneys. Those with kidney issues might face more risks.
Find the fibroid treatment you need and deserve
If you're living with fibroids, relief is possible. It's crucial to discuss treatment options with skilled fibroid specialists to find the best approach based on your situation and unique medical history.
Our team of compassionate fibroid doctors at Texas Endovascular is here to support you. Our uterine fibroid treatments, including UFE, are available on an outpatient basis and are highly effective. We provide cutting-edge interventions and non-surgical fibroid treatment that can significantly alleviate your symptoms for good.
If you're worried about symptomatic fibroids, there is hope. Contact our helpful team to book a consultation at one of our convenient locations today.
