All about Uterine Artery Embolization: Non Surgical Treatment of Fibroids

 

Q1 What is Uterine Artery Embolization?

 

A1 Uterine Artery Embolization involves administration of a chemical agent (embolic agent) through a catheter (a flexible tube) that blocks the blood supply to the fibroid, resulting in its shrinkage. This procedure has brought about remarkable or absolute resolution of the symptoms associated with fibroids. This procedure is also referred to as Uterine Fibroid Embolization.

 

It is a minimally invasive procedure which is increasingly being used in the treatment of fibroids and has already helped several women preserve their uterus.

 

Fluoroscopy, a type of real time X ray, is employed to lead the way of the embolic agent to the uterus, precisely the fibroid.

 

Q2 Who performs UAE procedure?

 

A2 Interventional Radiologist is the doctor who specializes in performing Uterine Artery Embolization.

 

A doctor who utilizes imaging techniques to guide procedures that are otherwise considered impossible with the conventional surgery.

 

UAE can also be done by a Gynaecologist who is trained in Uterine Artery Embolization.

 

Q3 When is Uterine Artery Embolization recommended?

 

A3 Uterine Artery Embolization is a novel and advanced form of treatment for fibroids. It has proved beneficial in the treatment of fibroids especially in women who have completed their family and wish to preserve their uterus.

 

So, UAE is advised in some women as first line of treatment for fibroids.

 

Other conditions where it may be indicated are:

• When Myomectomy did not work

• Adenomyosis of uterus

• Recurrent fibroids, post Myomectomy

 

 

Q4 What can you expect before Uterine Artery Embolization procedure?

 

A4  Before the doctor carries out the UAE procedure, the following will be done as preparation for the procedure:

• Detailed history taking and clinical examination to evaluate if you are pregnant, your medication history, history of allergies, any other medical condition that may pose as a deterrant in carrying out the procedure on you.
• Certain investigations will be carried out to help the doctor decide on the best course forward such as diagnostic imaging, blood tests
• You will be asked to stop certain types of medicines such as blood thinners, NSAIDS, Aspirin several days ahead of the procedure
• You will be advised to refrain from eat or drink anything after midnight prior to your procedure the next morning.
• You will be told about the details of the procedure and what can you expect after the procedure.

 

 

Q5 Who is advised Uterine Fibroid Embolization?

 

A5 Since effect of UFE on fertility is still not fully understood, it is advised only to women with fibroids, who have completed their family and also wish to preserve their uterus. Furthermore, when surgery is not a viable option, one can consider Uterine Artery Embolization.

 

Q6 What are the results obtained after Uterine Fibroid Embolization?

 

A6 Woman who has been treated with Uterine Artery Embolization experiences remarkable relief in her fibroid associated symptoms.  Besides symptom relief, it may affect her menstruation and fertility.

 

Symptoms relief

 

Most of the women experience remarkable relief in their symptoms within 3 months post procedure. Some studies have shown that over time the symptoms keep on continually improving to an extent that the results are comparable to that obtained after fibroid removal surgery or Myomectomy.

 

Effect on menstruation

 

Menses may occur as per your normal menstual cycle or if you miss period, the normalcy will be restored in a few months.

 

Some women who are 45 yrs or more have the potential risk of menopause after the Uterine Artery Embolization procedure.

 

Impact on fertility

Though rare, menopause may occur and also, subtle damage to ovaries may make it difficult to get pregnant. Furthermore, if the woman happen to get pregnant, the pregnancy related complications with regard to placenta placement may occur.

 

Despite the above mentioned risks, women have had successful preganancy after the Uterine Fibroid procedure.

 

Q7 How is recovery after Uterine Artery Embolization procedure?

 

A7 You can expect a hospital stay of a day. Your doctor will prescribe pain medicines for 2 to 3 days. There may be some vaginal discharge which will subside on its own. You need to watch out for signs and symptoms of infection such as fever, chills and pain and report them to your doctor.

 

Follow up examination will be scheduled within generally 4 weeks post UAE procedure and subsequent follow up visits may be scheduled to review the result of the procedure on the fibroid and also the uterus or if anything that needs to be done. Certain investigations such as MRI may be suggested.

 

Q8 What are the advantages of UAE over conventional myomectomy surgery as treatment of fibroids?

 

A8 Uterine artery embolism has an edge over conventional Myomectomy surgery due to the following reasons:

 

• No incision and scar thereafter, since it is not a surgery.

• Multiple fibroids can be treated at once

• Shorter recovery time which may be one to two days in contrast to Myomectomy surgery which may take 3 to 4 weeks

• Day care procedure

• UAE can be done under local anesthesia

• Shorter hospital stay, you may be discharged from the hospital the same day of the procedure or the next day.

• Preserves the uterus

• Unlike surgery, blood loss and formation of adhesions are not the issues with UAE.

 

 

Q9 Which are the top Gynaecology hospitals of India?

 

A9 List of Top Gynaecology Hospitals of India:

• Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, Delhi

• Fortis La Femme, Delhi

• Fortis Memorial Research Institute (FMRI), Delhi-NCR, Gurugram

• Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital, Delhi

• Rainbow Hospital for women and Children, Delhi

• BLK Superspeciality Hospital, Delhi

• Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai

• Kokilaben Dhirubai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai

 

All about Uterine Fibroids

 

 

Q10 What are fibroids?

 

A10 Fibroids or Myomas are non cancerous (Benign) tumors(swelling) generating from the muscles of the uterus (womb).

 

Fibroids are common in women in reproductive age group.

 

There may be single or multiple fibroids. 

 

Size of a fibroid may range from that of a grape to that of a pumpkin.

 

A fibroid may or may not cause symptoms depending upon its size and position in the uterus.

 

Q11 What are the symptoms of uterine fibroids?

 

A11 The woman with fibroid may experience the following symptoms:

 

• Heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding

• Pain in the pelvic area 

• Pain during menstruation

• Pain during intercourse (Dyspareunia)

• Irregular periods

• Pressure put on the bladder and bowel by the fibroid causing frequent urination, bloating, constipation

• Infertility

 

Q12 What are the different types of uterine fibroids?

 

A12 There are three main types of fibroids namely,

 

Subserous Fibroids: Most common. 

Intramural Fibroid: Intramural means inside the wall. These fibroids develop inside the muscular wall of the uterus.

Submucosal Fibroid: Uncommon. They grow into the uterine cavity.

 

Q13 How are fibroids diagnosed?

 

A13 Fibroids are diagnosed during clinical examination done if a patient present with some symptoms associated with fibroids or may be incidentally discovered during examination done for some other medical condition.

 

To confirm presence of fibroids, their size, location and number, investigations such as Ultrasonography or MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) may be advised.

 

Q14 What are the different treatment options for fibroids?

 

A14 The latest and most advanced non surgical treatment method of fibroids is Uterine Artery Embolization wherein the blood supply to the uterine fibroid is blocked, leading to its shrinkage. 

 

Its a minimally invasive procedure which comes under Interventional Radiology procedures in which a needle or a catheter is used  to carry out procedure under image guidance like that of USG, CT scan, MRI or X ray fluoroscopy.

 

Surgery for fibroids may be fibroid removal surgery referred to as Myomectomy or a surgery in which the uterus is removed (Hysterectomy).

 

Sometimes, in women who are approaching menopause, observation is all what is required,  This is because most of these fibroids stop growing and may even shrink on their own, after menopause.

 

However, this cannot be generalized. Some women may call for an active treatment.

 

Your doctor will determine, if you need an active treatment for fibroid and if yes, then which treatment modality will be suitable for you. Your doctor will take the following factors into account in order to decide the best treatment plan for you.

 

 

Fibroid Treatment in India|Uterine Fibroid Embolization| HealthcaretripIndia

 

 

• Most affordable​ fibroid treatment in India

 

• No waiting period.

​

• World class hospitals with state of the art infrastructure.

​

• Most advanced diagnostic and treatment methods are employed for optimal results.

​

• Globally trained doctors with decades of experience in carrying out the surgery with competence and ease.

​

• Great ambience

​

• Compassionate staff to look after.

​

• Hospitals accredited with international organizations such as JCI(Joint commission International) for quality standards.

​

• Language no barrier. English speaking people and if required, translators are available for your convenience

​

• Most economical accommodation available at a walking distance from the hospital. Wide range of options starting from guest house, service appartments to five star hotels, best suited to your budget and choice.

​

• Good flight connectivity

​

• India has a diverse and rich cultural heritage. You can witness its beauty and uniqueness. It offers most conducive environment for recuperation.

​

 

​Learn more

Medical Tourism in India FAQs

Top Gynaecologists of India|Fibroid Treatment in India

 

Dr Suman Lal

MBBS, MD (Obs & Gynae)

Diploma in Advanced Gynae Laparoscopic Surgery (Germany)

Principal Consultant, Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Max Hospital, Delhi-NCR, Gurugram

Top Gynaecologist in Gurugram|Uterine Fibroid Embolization|Max Hospital

 

Dr Anjila Aneja

MBBS, MD (Obs & Gynae), DNB (Obs & Gynae)

Diploma in Pelvic Laparoscopy, Germany

FRCOG, MRCOG, London, UK

Director, Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram

Fortis La Femme, Delhi

Top Gynaecologist in Gurugram|Uterine Fibroid Embolization|Fortis Hospital

 

Padmashree Dr (Prof.) Alka Kriplani

MBBS, MD (Gynae & Obs), FRCOG, FAMS, FICOG, FICMCH, FIMSA, FCLS

Director & Head, Centre for Minimally Invasive Gynaecology, Obstetrics and ART

Paras Hospital, Gurugram

Top Gynaecologist in Gurugram|Uterine Fibroid Embolization|Paras Hospital

 

Dr Nupur Gupta

MBBS, MS (Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

Director, Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram

Top Gynaecologist in Gurugram|Uterine Fibroid Embolization|Fortis Hospital

 

Dr Kumkum Vatsa

MBBS, MS

Senior Consultant, Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, Delhi-NCR

Fortis La Femme, Greater Kailash, Delhi

Top Gynaecologist in Gurugram|Uterine Fibroid Embolization|Fortis Hospital

Dr Shilpa Ghosh

MBBS, MS, Diploma in Advanced Gynaecological Laparoscopic Surgery (US)

Director, Obstetrics & Gynaecology

Aakash Healthcare Super Speciality Hospital, Dwarka, New Delhi

Top Gynaecologist in Dwarka, New Delhi|Uterine Fibroid Embolization|Aakash Healthcare Hospital

Top Interventional Radiologists of India|Uterine Artery Embolization

 

Dr Pradeep Muley

MBBS, MD (Radio Diagnosis) (Interventional Radiology)

Senior Consultant, Interventional Radiologist

Fortis Flt. Lt. Rajan Dhall Hospital, Vasant Kunj, Delhi

Top Interventional Radiologist in Delhi|Uterine Fibroid Embolization|Fortis Hospital

 

Dr Shahnawaz B. Kaloo

MBBS, MD (Radiology)

Fellowship (PDCC) Interventional Radiology, ILBS, Delhi

Consultant Interventional Radiology

Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, Delhi

Top Interventional Radiologist in Delhi|Uterine Fibroid Embolization|Max Hospital

 

Dr CPS Chauhan

MBBS, MD (Radiodiagnosis)

Director, Radiology and Intervetnional Radiology

Jaypee Hospital, Noida, Delhi-NCR

Top Interventional Radiologist in Noida, Delhi-NCR|Uterine Fibroid Embolization|Jaypee Hospital