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Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE)
Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a procedure performed by a radiologist. It blocks blood flow to fibroids in the uterus. (It is also called uterine artery embolization.) For women who are not planning a pregnancy in the future, UFE is a possible option in place of surgery for fibroids.
Follow your doctor's instructions exactly about when to stop eating and drinking, or your procedure may be canceled. If your doctor has instructed you to take your medicines on the day of your procedure, do so using only a sip of water. About an hour before the procedure, you may be given a sedative to help you relax. It will not put you to sleep, because it is important that you be awake to follow instructions during the procedure.
First, a thin, flexible tube called a catheter is placed into a blood vessel in the upper thigh (femoral artery). A substance called contrast material is then injected into the catheter. You may feel a warming sensation as it travels up to the uterus. The radiologist uses real-time X-ray on a video screen (fluoroscopy) to see the arteries and then guides the catheter to the arteries that supply blood to the fibroid. A solution of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) particles is injected into those uterine arteries through the catheter. These particles build up in the targeted arteries and block blood flow to the fibroid.
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: October 26, 2009 |
| Medical Review: | Sarah Anne Marshall, MD - Family Medicine Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology | |
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