Who performs uterine artery embolization?
BY DR. BROOKE WINNERUterine artery embolization, often referred to as uterine fibroid embolization, is a procedure carried out by an interventional radiologist.
During this procedure, the doctor inserts a catheter through a blood vessel in your leg and guides it to the uterus. Tiny particles are injected to block blood flow to the uterus, which leads to the fibroids gradually dying off and shrinking by about one third to half. However, it’s important to note that the fibroids will not disappear completely.
For some patients, the reduction in fibroid size may alleviate symptoms, while others may still experience issues and may require additional treatments, often surgical in nature. It’s essential to understand that the process of the fibroids dying after the blood supply is cut can be quite painful. Surprisingly, many patients report experiencing more pain after this procedure than they would after a minimally invasive surgery.
If you’re considering this procedure, it’s crucial to discuss the potential outcomes and discomfort with your healthcare provider to make an informed decision that best suits your needs.
Do you prefer to watch it?
Watch Dr. Brooke Winner explain who performs uterine artery embolization and what patients should know before choosing this treatment.
Similar Posts
