UTERINE ARTERY EMBOLIZATION (UAE) FOR FIBROID
What is UAE:
- Uterine Fibroid Embolisation (UFE), also called as Uterine Artery Embolisation (UAE) is a minimally invasive procedure done under local anaesthesia, using fluoroscopy guidance.
- Fibroids are non-cancerous growth, usually found in the uterus of women in their childbearing age. These fibroids can be more than one and grow in size, with time. While they may be asymptomatic, depending on the size and location of the fibroid in the uterus.
Why it is preferred:
Advantages of Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)
- Minimally invasive – Uterine artery embolization treatment is a non-surgical treatment.
- Fast recovery – 1 or 2 days hospital stay and women return to normal within days.
- Significant improvement in quality of life – Relief from heavy bleeding, pressure, and other symptoms.
- Uterus sparing (SAVE THE UTERUS) – Fibroid embolization keeps the uterus intact preserving hormonal function and fertility in women of childbearing age.
- Safe and non-toxic – No drugs or hormones.
How it performed:
- An Interventional Radiologist inserts a thin catheter inside a thigh artery and guides it to the uterine artery. Tiny round particles called PVA (Poly Vinyl Alcohol) are injected into the blood vessels of the uterine artery for embolisation.
- These particles block blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink. The PVA particles remain permanently at the fibroid site.
What do you expect after treatment:
- After a uterine fibroid/artery embolization, there is relief from heavy bleeding. Pressure / size related symptoms take about a few weeks or months to disappear.
Preparation for the procedure:
- Few basic blood investigations like CBC, PT/INR, viral markers.
- Fasting for 4-6 hrs.
- Bring all the records including imaging record.
- Signing consent form.
What are the risks:
- Pain, vaginal discharge, temporary amenorrhea, infection.
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