Does UFE Work for Multiple Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are common among women and can range in size and number in the uterus, sometimes causing symptoms like heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, bloating, and frequent urination. Some women may have a single fibroid, while others can have multiple fibroids of varying sizes. Multiple fibroids can be particularly challenging because they may grow in different areas of the uterus, and some treatments may treat one fibroid but not effectively address all of them. However, uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is an effective fibroid treatment that can treat multiple fibroids at the same time. 

Can UFE Treat Multiple Fibroids?

Yes, UFE can treat multiple fibroids, meaning there is more than one fibroid in the uterus. UFE provides women with multiple fibroids, an effective treatment option that cuts off the blood supply to all the fibroids at the same time instead of having to go back in for another UFE procedure to remove the rest. 

What is Uterine Fibroid Embolization?

UFE is a minimally invasive procedure performed by a doctor called an interventional radiologist. It is an alternative to major surgeries, such as hysterectomy or myomectomy. During the procedure, an interventional radiologist makes a small incision at the patient’s groin and inserts a thin catheter into the uterine artery. The physician then locates the blood supply to the fibroids and injects sand-sized particles into the blood vessels that nourish them. These particles block the blood, nutrients, and oxygen supply to the fibroids, stopping any further growth. 

What to Expect During UFE for Multiple Fibroids? 

When dealing with multiple fibroids, interventional radiologists use fibroid mapping technologies to determine the size, number, and location of all present fibroids. They may use fluoroscopy, ultrasound, or MRI to detect and identify fibroids and map out the fibroids present during the procedure. Based on the fibroid mapping results, the interventional radiologist determines the fibroids’ size, number, and location and performs the UFE procedure to stop the blood supply to them, leading to fibroid shrinkage over several weeks to months.

Benefits of UFE for Treating Multiple Fibroids

Women with multiple fibroids may prefer UFE over fibroid surgery because of the following benefits: 

• Minimally Invasive: UFE does not require large incisions or the removal of the uterine tissue, minimizing scarring. 
• Treats All Fibroids at Once: UFE treats all fibroids at once without invasive surgery. It doesn’t target a single fibroid but cuts off the blood supply to all fibroids at once.
• Preserve the Uterus: UFE preserves the uterus, unlike a hysterectomy, which is important for women who wish to maintain their fertility or for personal reasons.
• Shorter Recovery Time: UFE has a quicker recovery time than fibroid removal surgeries. Most women return to normal activities within 7-14 days.
• Significant Symptom Relief: UFE has effectively helped women find symptom relief, resulting in less pain, lighter periods, and reduced bloating.
• Less Chance of Fibroids Regrowing: With a success rate of 85% to 90%, there is less chance of fibroids regrowing after UFE. 

Comparing UFE to Other Treatments for Multiple Fibroids

Women with multiple fibroids have several treatment options. Here’s how UFE compares:

Why UFE May Be the Best Choice for Multiple Fibroids

When choosing a treatment for multiple fibroids, it’s important to consider effectiveness, recovery time, risks, and long-term outcomes. One major challenge with multiple fibroids is that they can be scattered throughout the uterus, making surgical removal (myomectomy) more complicated. Unlike myomectomy, which removes fibroids individually, UFE cuts off blood flow to all fibroids at the same time, which means no need for multiple surgeries. By addressing all the fibroids in one procedure, UFE simplifies treatment for women dealing with numerous fibroids.

Traditional surgeries like a myomectomy and hysterectomy also involve major incisions, leading to longer recovery times. In contrast, UFE is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that requires only a small puncture near the groin and has a 1-2 week recovery time. UFE allows women to return to their daily activities much faster than surgery, making it an excellent option for those with busy lifestyles.

For women who want to preserve their uterus—whether for future fertility or personal reasons—UFE is also an alternative to hysterectomy. Unlike hysterectomy, which removes the uterus entirely, UFE leaves the uterus intact while significantly shrinking fibroids. Although myomectomy also preserves the uterus, it involves surgically cutting into the uterine wall, which can weaken the uterus and lead to scar tissue formation. 

UFE, on the other hand, does not involve cutting or removing the uterus, making it a better option for women who wish to keep their reproductive organs.

Treat Multiple Fibroids with UFE

UFE is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive option for treating multiple fibroids. It provides long-lasting symptom relief, preserves the uterus, and allows women to return to their normal lives faster than surgery. If you’re experiencing fibroid symptoms and wondering if UFE is right for you, schedule a consultation with an interventional radiologist to discuss your options. Considering UFE? Schedule an appointment with one of our fibroid specialists today to take control of your health!