Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)
What is fibroid embolization?
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a non-surgical procedure designed to treat uterine fibroids, which are non-cancerous growths that develop in the uterus. Alternatively termed as leiomyomas or myomas, uterine fibroids can differ in size and may cause symptoms such as pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and pressure on the bladder or rectum. UFE offers a non-surgical alternative to address these symptoms and improve a patient’s quality of life.
Procedure of fibroid embolization in Dubai
Before recommending UFE, our specialist Dr. Sandeep, thoroughly evaluates the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and imaging studies (such as ultrasound or MRI) to confirm the presence of uterine fibroids.
The patient is prepared for the intervention on the day of the procedure, which an interventional radiologist typically performs.
Dr. Sandeep Burathoki, Interventional radiologists, will perform this procedure in an angiographic suite, equipped with a State of Art Rotational Angiographic machine.
The procedure takes place under local anesthesia. You would be mildly sedated and sleepy during the procedure, but are conscious and cooperative.
- A needle is used to enter the right femoral artery and a 2 mm thick sheath is placed at the femoral artery. Local anesthesia is used, so the needle puncture is not painful.
- Then, via the right femoral sheath placed at the groin, an 80 cm long, thin plastic tube (catheter) is guided to the left internal iliac artery, under X-Ray fluoroscopy imaging.
- The uterine artery is identified on internal iliac artery injection. Uterine artery is then selectively catheterized using a microcatheter over 0.014-inch microwire. Our advanced angio Lab, allows us to visualize pelvic vessels and uterine arteries as “Roadmap”; this makes the procedure safe to navigate the micro-catheter very distally into the uterine artery at safe zone.
- Catheter can be introduced selectively in the uterine artery via radial route (at wrist) or via femoral route (at groin).
- Uterine Artery injection showed, hypertrophic tortuous uterine artery supplying hyper-vascular fibroid(s). There is a well-developed peripheral network originating from an enlarged uterine artery and a centripetal supply originating from the peripheral network.
- Occlusion of blood supply of fibroid is known as embolization.
- Small particles or embolic agents, often made of gelatin and the size of grains of sand, are injected through the catheter into the blood vessels, leading to uterine fibroids.
- These particles selectively occlude the blood supply of all the fibroids irrespective of size and no.
- Fibroid vessels are preferentially occluded since they are larger and have a higher flow than normal myometrial branches (that supply the uterus).
- The embolization is continued until there is nearly complete blockage of flow in the uterine artery. Once one side is completed, the other side is embolized.
- The procedure’s progress is monitored in real-time using imaging techniques such as fluoroscopy to ensure the targeted delivery of embolic agents.
- Hemodynamic Vitals are continuously monitored.
- You would have an Intravenous pain-killers infusion.
- The procedure usually takes less than an hour.
- After completing uterine fibroid embolization, the site of skin puncture is cleaned and bandaged.
- Most patients can typically return home the same day or the day after the procedure.
How does UFE work?
- Fibroids are very vascular tumors, and they need constant supply of oxygen and nutrition to survive and grow.
- UFE blocks the blood supply of all the fibroids and starve them of oxygen and nutrition, so that these fibroids die, became scar and shrink within few months.
- With shrinkage of these fibroids, the symptoms they were causing either disappear or significantly less bothersome.
- Multiple fibroids may be treated at the same session by uterine fibroid embolization, and even very large ones can be effectively treated by this procedure.
When is uterine fibroid embolization recommended?
Fibroid embolization in Dubai is being used as a safe and effective treatment. UFE is generally recommended for anyone who is experiencing symptoms from fibroids and wants to avoid surgery such as a hysterectomy.
Unlike other fibroid therapies, UFE targets all fibroids in the uterus and is successful for both persons with a few fibroids and those with numerous fibroids, regardless of fibroid size. Uterine embolization can also be performed to treat adenomyosis, a less prevalent cause of heavy and painful periods.
Infertility caused by fibroids can be problematic; UFE may not be the best option for people with fibroids who want to have children in the future. Furthermore, those with fibroids in specific areas of the uterus may be better candidates for another treatment approach, such as surgical fibroid ectomy. Your interventional radiologist will explore whether UFE is a viable therapy choice with you.
Potential risks and complications of UFE
Most problems are uncommon and treatable. Risks include fibroid expulsion and uterine damage or infection that needs surgical removal.
These hazards are all less than 1% and should be thoroughly discussed with your interventional radiologist before proceeding with therapy. If you are nearing menopause, you may not have your period after UFE.
Uterine fibroid embolization cost in Dubai
The cost of a Uterine Fibroid Embolization in Dubai can vary based on several factors. Generally, the expenses orcost of fibroid surgery in Dubai encompass pre-operative consultations, medical tests, the actual procedure, and post-operative care. The price range of fibroid surgery in Dubai typically includes the expertise of the medical team, hospital facilities, and any additional services provided.
Uterine fibroid embolization cost in Dubai may also vary with the complexity of the patient’s condition and the required follow-up appointments. It is advisable for individuals considering UFE(Uterine fibroid embolization) or fibroid surgery in Dubai to consult with Dr. Sandeep to obtain a personalized cost estimate for this minimally invasive fibroid treatment in Dubai.
Book an appointment with Dr. Sandeep for UFE Dubai
If you’re ready to take control of your well-being and explore the transformative potential of Uterine Fibroid Embolization in Dubai, consult Dr. Sandeep, a dedicated expert specializing in this innovative and minimally invasive procedure.
