Is UFE a safe procedure?
Uterine fibroid embolization has been performed safely in thousands and thousands women worldwide. While no procedure is without risk, fibroid embolization has been shown to have a lower major complication rate than traditional surgical treatment options such as myomectomy. The two most serious potential complications are infection and ovarian failure leading to premature menopause. Infections are extremely uncommon and can usually be treated with oral or IV antibiotics. Rarely (much less than 1 percent), a severe infection can develop and may require the patient to undergo a hysterectomy. Ovarian failure leading to premature menopause is also relatively uncommon occurring in 1 to 2 percent of most patients and 2 to 4 percent of women nearing menopause.