Uterine artery embolization is a non surgical method for treating uterine fibroids, by blocking off the arteries that feed the fibroids, thus starving them and making the fibroids shrink and die.
PROCEDURE
It is performed by an interventional radiologist, with the patient under sedation. It does not require general anaesthesia.
Under local anaesthesia, a tiny nick in the skin in the groin is made through which a catheter is inserted into the femoral artery. Using real-time imaging, the catheter is guided through the artery and then tiny particles, the size of grains of sand, are released into the uterine arteries that supply blood to the fibroid. This blocks the blood flow to the fibroid and causes it to shrink and die. UAE is done in both left and right uterine arteries, using only one incision. If needed, more than one fibroid is treated.
DURATION
The procedure takes about 45 - 60 minutes.
It may be done as a day care procedure or require single day hospital stay.
RECOVERY
Pain may last for 2-3 days or more. Normal activities may be resumed within 7 - 10 days. Significant relief in symptoms is noted in first three months after treatment. Menstrual period resumes within a few months. Few women, may enter menopause after the procedure, specially those of age 45 and older.
RISKS
- Infection
- Damage to other organs
- Problems in future pregnancies
- Menstrual periods may not return after UAE.