UFE vs. Acessa: Comparing Minimally Invasive Treatments for Fibroid Relief
Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths in the muscle wall of the uterus. They can cause various symptoms, including heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure on the bladder or bowel, and frequent urination. Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) and the Acessa™ procedure are two innovative, minimally invasive treatments for managing and treating uterine fibroids. UFE blocks the blood supply to fibroids, causing them to shrink, while the Acessa™ procedure utilizes radiofrequency ablation to directly target and destroy fibroid tissue. Although some women may not experience symptoms, both procedures can significantly improve the quality of life for women suffering from fibroid-related symptoms. Understanding the differences and potential outcomes of these options can help patients decide which fibroid treatment is right for them.
Uterine Fibroid Embolization
UFE is a minimally invasive procedure performed by an interventional radiologist that involves injecting small particles into the arteries supplying blood to the fibroids. This cuts off the blood supply, causing the fibroids to shrink and die.
- Less invasive than surgery
- Lower risk of complications
- Same day procedure
- Quicker recovery time
- Preserves the uterus
- Effectively relieves fibroid symptoms
- Treats all fibroids regardless of their size, number, or location
- Pregnancy is possible after the procedure
Acessa ™ Procedure
The Acessa ™ procedure, also known as radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for fibroids, is a minimally invasive treatment that uses radiofrequency energy to destroy fibroid tissue. This procedure directly targets fibroids while preserving healthy uterine tissue.
- Less invasive than surgery
- Same day procedure
- Faster recovery time
- Preserves the uterus
- Targets specific fibroids
- Significantly reduces heavy bleeding and pelvic pain
- Cannot treat large fibroids over 10 cm
- Pregnancy is not recommended after having the procedure
Schedule an appointment at your nearest affiliated American Fibroid Center.
UFE Procedure vs. Acessa ™ Procedure
During Acessa ™, general anesthesia is administered to keep you asleep during the procedure. A few small incisions are made in your abdomen. A laparoscope is inserted through one incision to allow the doctor to see inside your pelvis. A special ultrasound probe is inserted through another incision to provide a clear picture of the fibroids and surrounding tissues. The Acessa ™ handpiece, a thin needle-like device, is inserted through a third incision.
Using real-time visualization from both the laparoscope and ultrasound, the doctor precisely positions the Acessa ™ handpiece within the fibroid. Radiofrequency energy is then delivered to the fibroid tissue, causing it to heat up and shrink. The process is repeated for each fibroid targeted for treatment. Once all fibroids are treated, the instruments are removed, and the incisions are closed with stitches or surgical glue.
During UFE, local anesthesia is administered and a thin tube (catheter) is inserted into your groin. Using X-ray guidance, an interventional radiologist navigates the catheter to the arteries feeding the fibroids. Tiny particles are injected through the catheter, blocking blood flow to the fibroids, and shrinking them over time. The catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to stop any bleeding.
Acessa ™ vs. UFE Recovery Time
Acessa™ and UFE offer faster recovery times compared to other uterine fibroid treatments. Patients can go home the same day and typically recover within 4-5 days. Most women are able to return to their normal daily activities and work after one week.
Which Fibroid Treatment is Right For You?
Choosing between uterine fibroid embolization and the Acessa™ procedure depends on the severity of your symptoms and the location, size, and number of fibroids. UFE and Acessa ™ significantly relieve fibroid symptoms, but Acessa ™ typically works best for women with multiple, small fibroids. It is not the best treatment for patients with numerous, connected fibroids, such as pedunculated and subserosal, that are over 10 cm in size.
The Acessa ™ procedure is also not recommended for women who want to get pregnant in the future – as the uterus is not able to support a fetus. If a patient does become pregnant, there is a high chance that it could lead to a uterine rupture. Results for the Acessa ™ procedure also typically take longer to provide full symptom relief. It can take up to 12 months to alleviate fibroid symptoms, however, some patients do experience relief from painful symptoms in the first 3-6 months.
At American Fibroid Centers, we recommend uterine fibroid embolization as a minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment option for women with fibroids. UFE can treat any fibroid no matter the size, number, or location. It also preserves the uterus, making pregnancy after UFE possible. Relief from symptoms such as heavy bleeding and severe menstrual cramps may be felt immediately or within weeks, but typical full symptom relief occurs in 3-6 months after the procedure. Approximately 85-90% of women who have the UFE procedure experience a significant improvement in their symptoms.
Why Choose American Fibroid Centers for UFE?
American Fibroid Centers lead the way in uterine fibroid treatment. Our team of specialized interventional radiologists is dedicated to providing minimally invasive solutions, such as UFE, to relieve uncomfortable fibroid symptoms without the need for surgery. By choosing American Fibroid Centers for UFE, you are selecting an experienced and compassionate team committed to offering personalized care and support throughout your fibroid treatment journey.
Our Fibroid Specialists
Our affiliated team of experts is dedicated to identifying the root causes of your fibroids and offering personalized treatment options, including UFE. They will assess you for any potential risk factors for fibroids and work with you to find the most effective solutions for alleviating your symptoms.
What Our Patients Are Saying
Learn more about our patients’ experiences at American Fibroid Centers.
From the Experts
Get to know more about the symptoms, causes, treatment, and care of Uterine Fibroids.
Schedule an appointment at your nearest American Fibroid affiliated center.