Key Takeaways:

• UFE is a non-surgical alternative to hysterectomy that shrinks fibroids by blocking their blood supply.
• Preserving fertility is possible; patients like Kawana Simon have successfully conceived after treating dozens of fibroids with UFE.
• Recovery is fast, typically taking about 7 days, with many patients feeling relief within 24 hours.
• Wrist access (radial) is a specialized technique used at Texas Endovascular to increase patient comfort and safety.

What is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)?

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure designed to shrink fibroids by permanently blocking their blood supply. Unlike a hysterectomy, which removes the uterus entirely, UFE preserves the organ and treats the growths at their source. During the procedure, a specialist at Texas Endovascular inserts a tiny catheter into the arteries (typically through the wrist) and releases microscopic particles that target the fibroids. Without blood flow, the fibroids shrivel and die, relieving symptoms like heavy bleeding and pelvic pressure.

Is it possible to have a baby after UFE treatment?

Yes, many women are able to conceive and have healthy pregnancies after undergoing UFE. On the December 2, 2025, episode of the Fox 26 Morning News, Dr. Eric Hardee was joined by Kawana Simon to share her incredible journey. Kawana suffered from 24 individual fibroids, making her a difficult candidate for traditional surgical removal (myomectomy). Dr. Hardee performed a UFE procedure to treat all 24 fibroids simultaneously. Just five months later, Kawana became pregnant and later gave birth to a healthy daughter.

Watch the full interview with Dr. Hardee and Kawana Simon on Fox 26 here.

How long is the recovery time for UFE?

Most patients return to their normal activities within 7 to 10 days following a UFE procedure. While traditional surgery requires weeks of hospital recovery and significant downtime, UFE is performed in an outpatient setting. Many patients report feeling significantly better within the first 24 hours. Because the procedure at Texas Endovascular is often performed through a tiny puncture in the wrist (radial access), there are no major incisions or stitches required.

What are the benefits of "Wrist Access" (Radial Access) UFE?

Performing UFE through the wrist offers superior patient comfort, faster discharge times, and a lower risk of bleeding complications compared to the traditional groin approach. Texas Endovascular was one of the first practices in Texas to offer this advanced radial access technique. It allows patients to sit up and move around immediately after the procedure, making the transition home much smoother and the recovery more comfortable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I know if I have symptomatic fibroids? Common symptoms include heavy or prolonged menstrual cycles, pelvic pain or pressure, and frequent urination. If fibroids are impacting your quality of life, you may be a candidate for UFE.

Can UFE treat multiple fibroids at once? Yes. One of the primary advantages of UFE is its ability to treat all fibroids in the uterus during a single session, regardless of how many are present (as seen in Kawana’s case with 24 fibroids).

Is UFE covered by insurance? Most major insurance providers and Medicare cover Uterine Fibroid Embolization as a standard treatment for symptomatic fibroids.

How can I schedule a consultation at Texas Endovascular? If you are seeking a non-surgical solution for fibroids, contact Texas Endovascular today to speak with our specialists and learn if UFE is right for you.