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Uterine Artery Embolization Treatment Hospital in Kolkata

Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Uterine Artery Embolization Treatment in Mukundapur

A less invasive option for the treatment of uterine fibroids is Uterine Fibroid Embolisation (UFE). This method can replace more extensive surgeries like Hysterectomy or Myomectomy resulting in a shorter recovery period and probably no hospital stay. Through this procedure, the fibroid tumour’s blood supply is cut off, resulting in shrinkage of the fibroid.

By cutting off the fibroids' blood supply, uterine fibroids can be made smaller with embolisation. This procedure involves injecting small particles into the arteries supplying the fibroids. The blood supply is cut off when the particles adhere to the vessel walls and form clots. The symptoms typically reduce or go away after this procedure. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), which has been successfully used in medical operations for many years, is mostly used as a particle agent.

This minimally invasive procedure entails determining which arteries provide blood to the fibroids and then cutting those arteries off. Pain, infection, and possible effects on subsequent pregnancies are the most common complications. Despite these hazards, UFE is quite effective at reducing symptoms associated with fibroid disorders, including excessive menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure symptoms. Manipal Hospitals, Mukundapur, has a team of experienced radiologists who employ advanced radiology techniques in diagnosing, treating, and follow-up procedures for uterine fibroids to ensure precision and effectiveness.

FAQ's

Having fibroids can be uncomfortable for women, and the doctor recommends UFE procedures in the following cases:
 

  • Women who show fibroid symptoms such as excessive bleeding, discomfort, frequent urination, and bloating
  • For women who would prefer a less invasive procedure 
  • Want to avoid major surgery like a Hysterectomy
  • Are not planning future pregnancies, as UFE can impact fertility
  • Have fibroids that are not excessively large or too numerous

UFE is typically carried out as follows:

  • A minute cut is created at the juncture of your leg and pelvis to allow the insertion of a catheter into an artery in your leg.

  • The uterine arteries, which feed blood to the uterus, are where the catheter is inserted.

  • The catheter is used to inject tiny plastic or gelatin particles into the arteries, which block the blood supply to the fibroids, causing their shrinkage.

  • Radiologists use Fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray imaging) or contrast agents to guide the catheter into the uterine arteries. This allows precise delivery of the embolic particles to the blood vessels supplying the fibroids.

This procedure is typically carried out by an interventional radiologist, who is a medical expert. In most circumstances, it can be performed as an outpatient procedure under a local anaesthetic and sedative.

About 90% of patients with fibroids receiving UFE treatment report complete or partial symptom improvement. Additional benefits of the UFE are as follows:

  • There is a short recovery period due to the lack of major sutures or incisions

  • Minimal bleeding or blood loss 

  • The complication rate is lower than with invasive operations

  • It avoids the negative effects of hormone treatments, which are occasionally employed to treat fibroids

  • It is less invasive than other treatments like Myomectomy, which removes uterine fibroids surgically, and Hysterectomy, which removes your uterus because it just requires a minor puncture. 

  • Less hospital stay as it is done as an outpatient procedure

If the incision is made through the groyne, you can get up and move around after a few hours of the procedure. You can walk right away if the procedure is done through the wrist.

It's common to experience mild cramps afterwards, which should subside with time. The reason for this is ‌reduced blood flow. Most women who get pain medication for cramps return home the same day or the day after the treatment.

Many fibroids remain attached to the uterine wall following their dissolution. After fibroid embolisation, most women resume their normal activities after a few days, but they may have fatigue for a few weeks.

The actual UFE technique doesn't hurt at all. The groyne area may sting for around 10 seconds before the local anaesthetic takes effect. Pain varies in intensity, although fibroids can become strangulated (shut off from blood supply) shortly after embolisation.

Problems might arise with any kind of procedure. Here are a few potential risks associated with this procedure:

  • Abnormal bleeding, or haemorrhage

  • Damage to the uterine wall

  • Infection of the uterus or the area where the groyne was punctured

  • Hematoma, or significant blood clot at the site of the groyne puncture, is similar to a bruise

  • Damage to the modified artery

  • Presence of blood clots

  • Fertility problems

  • Loss of menstrual periods, or amenorrhoea

Certain women experience post-embolisation syndrome. The following are possible symptoms of this illness, although they are not exclusive to them:

  • Cramps and discomfort in the pelvis
  • Vomiting and nausea
  • Low-grade fever
  • Fatigue and discomfort

Post-embolisation syndrome symptoms typically persist for two to seven days. Patients may be prescribed painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and nausea-relieving medicines.

With an approximate success rate of 85%, uterine fibroid embolisation is a fairly successful surgery. Most patients have a significant improvement in their symptoms as well as a reduction in the size of their uterine fibroids after the operation.

Yes, the UFE procedure can impact your fertility, so it may not be suitable for women who plan to conceive in the future. This procedure also offers many benefits over other treatments for fibroids. However, before making any decision, it's important to discuss fertility concerns with your doctor.

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