Fibroids are noncancerous tumors that grow on or in the uterus and can cause a number of symptoms. In some women, uterine fibroids can disappear without treatment and without causing any complications. For others, these fibroids can be so severe that they will need to have them removed by a medical procedure known as uterine fibroid embolization (UFE). Uterine fibroid embolization is an effective procedure that has been around for close to 30 years, but there are still many questions about what happens after this procedure. The first question that people ask is whether or not uterine fibroids can return after uterine fibroid embolization. The truth is that it’s not easy to say because the answer depends on how well the procedure was done.
Most medical experts like those found at Access Vascular Health: Michelle Maneevese, MD, believe that after a well-done uterine fibroid embolization, the fibroid cells shouldn’t return. However, if the UFE procedure is poorly performed, a fibroid can regrow.
Read on to learn more about uterine fibroid embolization and the chances of fibroids returning.
What Is Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Uterine fibroid embolization is a minimally invasive guided procedure to remove uterine fibroids. An interventional radiologist performs the procedure. The procedure is image-guided with a high-definition x-ray camera so the radiologist can see the arteries properly.
How To Prepare For Uterine Fibroid Embolization Procedure UFE?
Before you are scheduled for a uterine fibroid embolization procedure, your physician will check to determine whether or not diagnostic tests will be conducted before the procedure. Your physician will also check your medical history to avoid giving you medications that could trigger a reaction, especially sedatives. Additionally, the sedation options will also be discussed so that you’ll know the estimated period you’ll sleep during and after the procedure.
A day before your procedure, make sure you take plenty of fluids, water, or juice. Try not to drink or eat anything after midnight before your procedure or at least 8 hours before your procedure. However, if you have some medications to take, do so with a small quantity of water and also confirm with your physician if you can take them before your procedure. Do not take any supplements that can increase bleeding risk 24 hours before your appointment. Avoid shaving the surgical site as your radiologist or nurse is in a better position to prepare the site; you can take a bath but don’t apply cream or lotion.
On the day of your UFE procedure, wear loose and comfortable clothing to the appointment.
What To Expect During Uterine Fibroid Embolization Procedure?
Uterine fibroids embolization usually takes between 1 to 3 hours, and you could be discharged on the same day or admitted overnight and be discharged the following morning. The procedure usually begins with sedating the patients to make them feel relaxed and sleepy so they won’t feel the pain. After sedation, a tiny incision will be made on the upper thigh from where a needle-thin catheter will be inserted into the blood vessel supplying blood and oxygen to the fibroid. Thereafter, an embolic agent containing tiny particles will be injected into the artery supplying blood to the fibroid to cause the shrinkage of the fibroid tissue. At the end of the procedure, the tube will be removed, and gentle pressure will be applied to the incision to stop bleeding, and then the incision will be closed up with a device.
Recovery and Improvement
After the procedure, it’s normal to feel tired as the sedative gradually wears off. At this point, it’s not advisable to drive yourself home, so you might need to call a friend or family member to drive you home. The recovery should begin after the procedure, but you’ll need to follow your prescribed instructions to have a smooth recovery.
You will be advised to avoid strenuous exercise and activities within the first seven days. Walk gently to improve the blood flowing in your body and also take enough rest; preferably, take a week off work. By the second week, you can resume your normal routine but don’t rush to it, take things easy. At the end of the second week, you can completely get back to your regular activities.
Within the first two months, you’ll begin to notice significant changes in your body. Symptoms such as pelvic pain, heavy menstrual flow, and others will begin to reduce, and you’ll experience increased energy levels.
Uterine fibroid embolization procedures are very effective. But, endeavor to have it done at a reputable clinic that’s home to professional medical practitioners.
