Endometrial Ablation vs. Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)
Most women will have fibroids at some point in their lives. Fibroids range in size, location and severity, and can affect every woman differently.
Fibroids are most common in women in their 30s and 40s. The symptoms include irregular and/or heavy periods, cramping, pelvic pain, lower back pain, urinary frequency, anemia and sometimes the appearance of weight gain due to an enlarged uterus.
Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) and endometrial ablation are both used when fibroids cause heavy periods, but they work in different ways. UFE treats the fibroids. Endometrial ablation treats the lining of the uterus. Texas Endovascular performs UFE. Endometrial ablation is performed by a gynecologist.
The following is a breakdown of these treatment options that can help you learn more about endometrial ablation vs. UFE.
What is uterine fibroid embolization?
Our team can effectively treat most cases of symptomatic uterine fibroids using uterine fibroid embolization (UFE). The procedure uses a fluoroscopic X-ray device to deliver embolic material that inhibits blood flow to the tumors. The lack of blood shrinks them and causes them to shrink over time.
UFE is a safe and effective process with 9 in 10 women noting symptom relief post-UFE. This specialized treatment can be administered in the groin or wrist arteries.
In most cases, women experience substantial improvements in their symptoms and reductions in the size of their uterine fibroids.
What is endometrial ablation?
Endometrial ablation destroys the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium, to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding. A gynecologist passes slender instruments through the vagina and cervix, so no incisions are needed. The lining is treated with heat, cold, or another form of energy.
Endometrial ablation does not shrink or remove fibroids. It can lighten heavy periods, but it does not relieve pressure, bloating, or other symptoms caused by the size of fibroids. It is not recommended for women who want a future pregnancy.
What are the differences between endometrial ablation vs. UFE?
There are various ways to treat fibroids. We believe that patient education, an accurate diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment plan are the best ways to select the most favorable treatment option for you.
Both UFE and endometrial ablation:
- Keep the uterus in place
- Are usually done as outpatient procedures
- Let you go home the same day
- Can reduce heavy menstrual bleeding
Although there are various similarities between these two procedures, there are also significant differences to consider.
You can explore the differences between endometrial ablation vs. UFE using the table below:
UFE
- Treats the fibroids themselves
- Utilizes local anesthesia and light sedation
- Requires one small incision and no stitches
- Can be used to treat all sizes and locations of fibroids
- Can reduce fibroids to approximately 30% of their size over 3 to 12 months
- Pregnancy is possible afterward. Discuss your plans with your doctor first
Endometrial ablation
- Treats the uterine lining, not the fibroids
- No incisions. Done through the vagina and cervix
- Usually done with sedation. General anesthesia is sometimes used
- Reduces heavy bleeding. Does not relieve pressure or bulk symptoms
- Not recommended if you want a future pregnancy
Before deciding which treatment option is best, it is crucial to speak with your OBGYN and fibroid specialist to determine the best course of action based on your unique health needs.
Our experts offer the fibroid treatment you need
At Texas Endovascular, we recognize the negative impact fibroids can have on your everyday life and well-being. We also know that treatment is different for everyone, so we will customize your care plan to meet your unique healthcare and wellness needs.
The bottom line? You don’t have to live with debilitating fibroid symptoms or worry about continued fibroid growth. Our specialists focus on uterine fibroid embolization, a non-surgical fibroid treatment. You can take control of your health by understanding the differences between endometrial ablation vs. UFE and opting for specialized care with us. To learn more about whether UFE or ablation is right for you, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at one of our convenient locations today.
