Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), also known as artery embolization is available at Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital.

While some women have few or no symptoms as a result of fibroids, many experience pain, uncomfortable pressure and heavy or prolonged menstrual periods. According to the National Institutes of Health, one out of every two to four women will have symptoms from fibroids during their reproductive years. Fibroids have been the leading reason for hysterectomies in the United States. During UFE, the physician inserts a tiny catheter into the femoral artery at the top of the leg. Patients receive mild sedation and a numbing agent. Fibroids are treated from both the right and left uterine arteries so that the blood flow feeding the fibroids is completely blocked. The catheter is then guided into the uterine artery and an arteriogram is done to map the arteries feeding.

Next, tiny Embosphere® Microspheres are injected through the catheter and into the fibroids, cutting off their blood supply. The fibroids begin to shrink, but the uterus and ovaries are spared.

This minimally invasive therapy treats all of the patient’s fibroids and usually takes less than sixty minutes. Clinical data suggests that patients can return to daily activities on average within 11 days. Benefits of UFE include preservation of the uterus, decreased menstrual bleeding from symptomatic fibroids, urinary dysfunction and pelvic pain and/or pressure. Also surgical removal of the uterus and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is typically not needed.

Forms

• MRI Scheduling Form
• MRI Screening Safety Form

For more information about our imaging services please call (248) 937-3440