What is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)?
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is an experimental procedure that is being researched. A substance is injected into the vessels supplying the uterus. The vessels are blocked thereby decreasing the flow of blood to the uterus and reducing the size of the fibroids. A review of the medical literature reveals two published reports of UFE. They state that there is an approximately 40% reduction in size with a majority of patients reporting satisfactory results. They admit that the studies have low numbers of patients, no long-term follow-up and lack of a comparison group. The cost and particular method of anesthesia used is not available and likely varies. The UCLA Medical Group is one of the more prominent centers doing Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE). Their web site provides a lot of information on UFE, but realize it is not an unbiased source.
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is an experimental procedure that is being researched. A substance is injected into the vessels supplying the uterus. The vessels are blocked thereby decreasing the flow of blood to the uterus and reducing the size of the fibroids. A review of the medical literature reveals two published reports of UFE. They state that there is an approximately 40% reduction in size with a majority of patients reporting satisfactory results. They admit that the studies have low numbers of patients, no long-term follow-up and lack of a comparison group. The cost and particular method of anesthesia used is not available and likely varies. The UCLA Medical Group is one of the more prominent centers doing Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE). Their web site provides a lot of information on UFE, but realize it is not an unbiased source.
