Uterine Fibroid Treatment at SAVI
Uterine fibroids are fairly common with between 20-70 percent of women developing them at some point during their reproductive years. While the overwhelming majority of uterine fibroid cases are harmless, the condition should not be ignored. Fibroids can cause complications such as reproductive issues and excessive bleeding, as well as pain and discomfort, if left untreated.
Conveniently located on the south side of Atlanta in Stockbridge, GA, South Atlanta Vascular Institute, is a forerunner in uterine fibroid treatment. We specialize in uterine fibroid embolization, a minimally invasive fibroid procedure that effectively eliminates fibroids with little to no downtime.
What is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)?
Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that form on the outside, inside or into the uterine cavity. Uterine fibroid embolization is a non-surgical fibroid treatment that shrinks fibroids by blocking off their blood supply. As fibroids are deprived of blood flow, the fibrous growths shrink. Uterine fibroid embolization is performed non-surgically, allowing patients to resume normal, daily activities much sooner than with traditional surgical approaches.
How does Uterine Fibroid Embolization work?
Uterine fibroid embolization is best performed by a vascular specialist, such as our highly qualified team at South Atlanta Vascular Institute. With this method, major surgery and a lengthy hospital stay can be avoided entirely. With uterine fibroid embolization, patients will be administered a medication to help them relax and manage pain. A small incision is then made in the groin area and with the use of x-ray guidance, blood vessels will be mapped out that are supplying blood to the fibroids. A small tube, called a catheter, is inserted into the uterine arteries. A surgeon then inserts small, round particles through the catheter into the arteries that supply the fibroids with blood. These tiny particles fuse to the vessel wall and cause a clot to form. The clot works to block blood flow and the fibroids then shrink in size. Following the uterine fibroid treatment, the skin puncture is cleaned and bandaged. Over time, the fibroids shrink and symptoms will decrease or resolve completely.
Common Fibroid Embolization FAQs
Is Uterine Fibroid Embolization a surgical procedure?
Uterine fibroid embolization is a minimally invasive, non-surgical fibroid removal procedure, as it only requires a small puncture wound in the skin. Recovery from uterine fibroid embolization is faster than traditional surgery and does not require stitches to be removed or wounds to heal. The overall risk of bleeding or complications are lower than with invasive forms of surgery.
Who is a suitable candidate for Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
Uterine fibroid embolization is generally recommended for anyone experiencing symptoms such as an enlarged uterus, pain in the pelvic region, constipation, pain during sexual intercourse, discomfort in the back or legs, low blood count due to uterine bleeding or bladder pressure. Nearly any woman who wishes to address her fibroids while avoiding invasive surgery, such as a hysterectomy, is typically a candidate. However, if the fibroids are excessive, positioned in a particular way, or large in size, uterine fibroid embolization may not be right for you.
What are the benefits of choosing Uterine Fibroid Embolization over other treatments?
There are a number of benefits in selecting uterine fibroid embolization as your uterine fibroid treatment method. Uterine fibroid embolization is an FDA-approved, minimally invasive procedure that offers fewer complications or risk, making it safer than traditional surgery. Typically speaking, no hospital stay is required and no scarring occurs with uterine fibroid embolization. The recovery time is quicker and fibroid symptoms decrease faster, as a result. Uterine fibroid embolization also preserves the uterus, unlike an invasive surgery, such as a hysterectomy.
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Are there any potential side effects of Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
While uterine fibroid embolization is a safe, minimally invasive fibroid treatment, risks and complications can occur. Following the procedure, symptoms may include pelvic pain or cramping, low-grade fever, fatigue, nausea and vomiting that may last 2-7 days. Complications from uterine fibroid embolization are rare, but may include abnormal bleeding, infection at the puncture site, blood clots, injury to the uterus and loss of menstrual period. Be sure to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider prior to treatment.
How long is the recovery period after Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
Typical recovery from uterine fibroid embolization lasts 7-10 days. Generally there are no restrictions after the procedure, but for the first few days patients may experience pelvic pain and pressure. It is not uncommon for fatigue, chills and fever to occur within the first few days following treatment. Some patients choose to stay in the hospital overnight for help managing pain and nausea, while many patients return home the same day. The first menstrual cycle following the procedure may be heavier than normal and breakthrough bleeding may occur.
Does Uterine Fibroid Embolization affect fertility?
The uterus is not removed during uterine fibroid embolization, however the treatment can affect menstrual periods and fertility for some women. Research is still needed to determine the exact impact of uterine fibroid embolization on fertility, but it is possible to conceive following this treatment. However, some women, particularly 45 and older, may go through menopause after the procedure.
Is Uterine Fibroid Embolization covered by insurance?
Uterine fibroid embolization is a safe, FDA-approved treatment for uterine fibroids. Most insurance companies, including Medicaid, will cover the cost of the treatment for women that are symptomatic. If you are unsure about your financial responsibility, it is advised to check with your insurance to verify plans and benefit coverage. At South Atlanta Vascular Institute, we work closely with insurance companies to ensure authorization is met prior to the procedure.
How can I schedule a consultation for Uterine Fibroid Embolization at SAVI?
If you are interested in learning more about uterine fibroid embolization, South Atlanta Vascular Institute is here to help. We will schedule a consultation at our Stockbridge, GA clinic to determine if uterine fibroid embolization is right for you. The consultation will utilize imagining to ensure the fibroid tumors are the cause of your symptoms. The size, location and number of uterine fibroids will be determined and a treatment plan will be discussed accordingly.
We are pleased to report that 85% of patients who underwent uterine fibroid embolization experience a dramatic improvement of their symptoms. Don’t delay, contact us to schedule your appointment today!