If you have uterine fibroids that cause uncomfortable symptoms, there is hope. Georgia Endovascular offers the effective treatment you need to live a full, fibroid-free life.
Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) in Georgia offers a safe, effective, and minimally invasive way to treat symptoms ranging from heavy menstrual bleeding to pelvic pain.
The team at Georgia Endovascular is giving us a deeper look at this non-surgical fibroid treatment in Atlanta.
What are uterine fibroids?
Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are largely non-cancerous (benign) growths on or inside the uterus. According to UCLA, about 80% of women will experience symptomatic or asymptomatic fibroids in their lifetime. Many of these women will have multiple fibroids.
Some women with fibroids never develop symptoms. However, women with large or numerous fibroids may experience discomfort. Uterine fibroids can cause uncomfortable symptoms, including:
- Excessive menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pain
- Frequent or urgent urination
- Infertility
Fibroid treatment in Georgia depends on symptom severity, the size and location of the fibroids, and whether the patient wants to conceive in the future.
Treatment options can include monitoring the fibroids and taking medications to manage symptoms. In more severe cases, medical interventions like uterine fibroid embolization in Georgia may be necessary.
What is uterine fibroid embolization?
UFE is a non-surgical technique for treating fibroids that cause symptoms. This minimally invasive method is an effective alternative to procedures like endometrial ablation, hysterectomy, or myomectomy.
This interventional radiology fibroid treatment works by obstructing the fibroids' blood supply. As a result, the fibroids shrink and eventually die.
How UFE works
As part of UFE treatment, a board-certified interventional radiologist performs a series of steps, as follows:
- The doctor inserts a small catheter into an artery, either the radial artery on the wrist or the femoral artery in the groin area.
- Using real-time imaging, the specialist guides the catheter to the uterine vessels that carry blood to the fibroids.
- Tiny embolic particles are injected through the catheter, blocking the blood vessels and cutting off the fibroids' blood supply.
According to Penn Medicine, UFE has an astonishing success rate of roughly 85%.
Uterine fibroid embolization is an outpatient procedure. Most patients can return home on the same day. They can also return to normal activities far more quickly than after a hysterectomy, which typically requires several months of recovery.
Benefits of UFE
UFE is a popular fibroid treatment. This procedure provides effective relief without the need for surgery or a hospital stay. It also preserves the uterus, which is ideal for women who want to conceive later.
Other UFE benefits include the following:
- Treatment is covered by most health insurance plans
- Fast relief of symptoms
- Shorter recovery time
- Reduction of heavy bleeding during menstruation
- Minimal blood loss and no scarring
Who is a candidate for UFE?
Candidates for UFE are typically women whose symptoms have not responded to conservative treatments like medication or hormonal therapy. Additionally, patients must be in good physical condition before having uterine fibroid embolization in Georgia.
Certain patients might not be good candidates for UFE. These include the following:
- Patients whose fibroids do not cause symptoms
- Patients suffering from uterine, cervical, or ovarian cancer
- Patients with disorders of the vascular system
- Patients with kidney or heart issues
Expert UFE Care in Georgia
Our caring providers at Georgia Endovascular proudly offer UFE for symptomatic fibroids.
If you are experiencing uncomfortable uterine fibroid symptoms, please contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our convenient locations. We can help you find out if UFE is right for you.
You can also learn more by taking our UFE quiz and reading our UFE eBook.
FAQs
Below are answers to common questions about uterine fibroid embolization.
What are the benefits of UFE compared to hysterectomy or myomectomy?
Not only does UFE preserve the uterus and future fertility, but it also has other benefits:
- Fast symptom relief
- Shorter recovery time
- Lighter periods
- Minimal blood loss and no scarring
How long does the UFE procedure take?
Typically, UFE takes between 60 and 90 minutes.
Is UFE covered by insurance?
Yes, most insurance plans cover uterine fibroid embolization in Georgia.
Will I still be able to get pregnant after UFE?
Yes, most patients can get pregnant after UFE because it keeps the uterus (womb) intact.
How soon can I return to normal activities after treatment?
Most people can return to normal activities one to two weeks after their UFE procedure.
