
How do you treat uterine fibroids? Sometimes, you don’t need surgery to get the results you want. That’s the case with uterine artery embolizations or UAs. These procedures target the blood vessels supplying the fibroid tumors in your uterus, reducing blood flow to and from the tumors to starve them and shrink them over time. Here’s everything you need to know about UAs and whether this treatment might be right for your needs.
What Is Uterine Artery Embolization?
Uterine fibroid embolization is a procedure used to treat uterine fibroids. This non-surgical procedure does not require anesthesia or incisions and can be performed in an outpatient facility. Read more…
What Are the Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids?
Many women do not experience symptoms until their fibroid grows to be quite large. Symptoms of uterine fibroids vary depending on their size and location but can include irregular bleeding, pain during intercourse, pressure in your abdomen or pelvic area, and pelvic pressure. If you suspect you might have uterine fibroids, it is best to schedule a consultation with a doctor as soon as possible. The earlier uterine fibroid embolization is performed after diagnosis, the more effective it will be in treating your symptoms.
How Does Uterine Artery Embolization Work?
During uterine artery embolization (UAE), multiple catheters are placed inside a patient’s uterus. Doctors then thread microspheres into each catheter and inject them, blocking blood flow to fibroid tumors. Over time, fibroid tumors shrink or dissolve because of a lack of blood flow.
Why Is Uterine Artery Embolization Used Rather a Than Hysterectomy?
Unlike traditional surgical treatment options, uterine artery embolization is a less invasive procedure. This can make it a good option if you are young or are not yet ready to have surgery. In addition, if you choose Embolizations Albuquerque, you can still become pregnant and carry a baby to term.
What Happens After an Embolization Procedure?
Following a uterine embolization procedure, you may notice a small incision near your groin. It will be covered with gauze and should disappear within a week or two. Also, you might experience some abdominal pain, nausea and cramping after treatment. These are normal side effects of having blood flow rerouted around your uterus. Your doctor can prescribe medicine to control these symptoms if they become bothersome.
How Long Will My Recovery Take?
The entire procedure takes about 30 minutes to an hour, and you should be able to leave after 30 minutes. If you are given a prescription painkiller to take before your procedure, it’s likely that you will feel pain for a day or two after your treatment. Keep in mind, however, that there is no downtime with uterine artery embolization—you can go back to work after one day and resume all normal activities within two days.
Cost of The Procedure
The cost of an angiogram with embolization ranges between $3,000 and $6,000. Women who choose uterine artery embolization will typically pay about $1,500 or less to have it performed as an outpatient procedure in a hospital setting. The cost of uterine fibroid embolization is similar to that of a hysterectomy, which ranges from $2,100 to $7,700 depending on complications and other factors that may affect pricing.
Who Is a Candid Candidate For An Undergoing This Procedure And When Do I Need To Call My Doctor Or Surgical Facility?
Women who are diagnosed with uterine fibroid tumors that require surgical removal, as well as women with fibroid tumors that have an adverse effect on their quality of life or who suffer from symptoms such as abnormal bleeding, may be good candidates for an embolization procedure. However, keep in mind that any woman who is at risk of uterine cancer should not consider embolization.