Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Uterine Fibroid
Fibroids are muscular tissue growths of the uterus that develop abnormally and form into masses. These masses can grow in various locations, but the most common site is the uterine wall. The size of these tumors can exceed 10 centimeters, and they may occur in multiple numbers.
Fibroids are observed in more than 30% of women. They can be asymptomatic and cause no discomfort, often being detected incidentally during an ultrasound. In many cases, they resolve spontaneously after menopause.
Embolization is recommended in the following cases:
Fibroids that cause heavy bleeding.
Fibroids that cause pain and pressure in the bladder and rectal areas.
– Reluctance to remove the uterus
– Lack of desire for pregnancy
Necessary Preparations for Uterine Fibroid Artery Embolization
Fasting for 6 hours.
Bringing previous medical records.
Carrying a blood coagulation test.
The presence of a companion to assist with administrative tasks.
Monitoring and Evaluation of Uterine Fibroids
In some women, uterine fibroids can lead to pelvic pain, irregular menstrual bleeding, urinary disturbances, and, rarely, infertility. In extremely rare cases, fibroids may transform into malignant or cancerous forms.
The most common reason for patients with uterine fibroids to seek medical attention is irregular bleeding, which can sometimes lead to severe anemia.
Intervention Clinics
The interventional clinics at PardisNoor comprehensive imaging centers, equipped with advanced technology and a specialized team, provide minimally invasive treatments with high precision and safety.
New, Non-Surgical Treatment for Uterine Fibroids (Uterine Fibroid Artery Embolization)
Uterine artery embolization for fibroids is one of the treatment methods for uterine fibroids, which has recently gained increased attention.
In this method, a combination of several blocking agents is injected into the uterine fibroid’s artery, leading to the obstruction of these blood vessels. Consequently, by cutting off the blood and oxygen supply, the fibroid mass undergoes necrosis and becomes inactive. Approximately 90% of patients who underwent this treatment observed significant improvement in their symptoms. Radiology specialists recommend performing an MRI to determine the suitability of a fibroid for embolization. An MRI facilitates the identification of the blood vessels supplying the uterine fibroid, thereby enabling a more effective treatment.
The Procedure for Uterine Fibroid Embolization
After the patient’s documents are approved by the radiologist, under the guidance of imaging equipment and with the application of local anesthesia, a specialized catheter is inserted into the uterine fibroid artery through the right groin. Subsequently, a combination of blocking agents is injected into the targeted artery. Throughout the procedure, imaging equipment is continuously used to monitor and verify each step.
At the end, the catheter is removed from the artery, the incision site is dressed, and bleeding at the incision site is prevented by applying an Angio-Seal and a specialized sandbag.
Uterine fibroid artery embolization is performed without surgical incision and only involves creating a small millimeter-sized puncture, which leaves no lasting marks after a short period of time.
Advantages of Uterine Fibroid Artery Embolization
This procedure is performed without anesthesia and involves significantly fewer complications compared to surgery.
The patient’s return to normal daily life is achievable in the shortest possible time.
It has minimal bleeding compared to surgery.
The recurrence rate is very low.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How does uterine fibroid embolization help in treatment?
In this method, under angiographic guidance, the blood vessels supplying the fibroid are blocked. By cutting off the blood supply, the fibroid gradually shrinks, leading to a reduction in symptoms such as heavy bleeding and pain.
Does this procedure require surgery and removal of the uterus?
No, embolization is a minimally invasive procedure performed without surgical incisions and without removing the uterus. For many women, it is considered a suitable alternative to surgery.
How long after embolization will symptoms improve?
Symptom reduction typically begins within a few weeks, and the shrinkage of fibroids continues over several months. Improvement in heavy bleeding is often noticeable in the subsequent menstrual cycles.