A Good Candidate for UFE

There is great news if you are a good candidate for Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE).

UFE has an excellent track record regarding its effectiveness in relieving fibroid symptoms. It also has a faster recovery time than more invasive procedures like a hysterectomy and a myomectomy.

In fact, based on the results of a meta-analysis of several studies, it is estimated that on average 92% of women treated with Uterine Fibroid Embolization, experience a decrease in fibroid symptoms.

Wow. That’s a lot of women.

So you might be asking yourself, ” Am I a good candidate for UFE?”

That’s a great question and one that can best be answered by scheduling a consultation to find out more about UFE and if it can benefit you.

However, in the meantime, we will try and answer it in a general way here.

Most women with symptomatic fibroids are good candidates for Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) procedure. This includes women who experience any of the following fibroid symptoms:

• Heavy Bleeding – This may be characterized by prolonged periods, very heavy bleeding, or irregular bleeding.
• Pain – Pain can arise from the position of the fibroids within the uterus as well as compression on the other organs in the area. It can also be related to fibroid size.
• Pressure Symptoms – If a fibroid pushes up against another organ, such as the bladder, it can cause problems, such as frequent urination. A large fibroid can also push against the rectum, creating problems with having a bowel movement.

So who isn’t a good candidate for UFE?

As with any medical procedure, there are contraindications or reasons that the UFE procedure may not be right for everyone.

Sometimes the reasons are absolute, meaning that under no circumstances should the procedure be performed. An example of an absolute contraindication to UFE is pregnancy.

It is not advisable to x-ray a pregnant uterus or to administer anything that will block the flow of blood to the uterus while a woman is pregnant. Therefore it’s important to share with your doctor if you are pregnant or are thinking of becoming pregnant anytime soon, as this could affect the time frame in which UFE can be performed.

Other reasons that someone might not be a candidate for UFE are:

• Chronic Kidney Disease – The contrast dye can be harmful to someone with poorly functioning kidneys. The decision to give contrast dye to a person with chronic kidney disease is made on an individual basis.
• Uncertain Pelvic Mass – If there is any question if the mass is something other than a fibroid, then UFE is not the appropriate procedure.
• Any Active Infection – Any procedure not related to treating the infection should be avoided, as the infection could worsen or spread. It may be possible to reconsider UFE after the infection has resolved.
• Asymptomatic Fibroids – UFE should not be performed unless the fibroids are causing symptoms that would indicate surgery.

When it comes to determining if someone is a good candidate for UFE it really comes down to working with a medical expert to access your particular fibroid symptoms and all other variables at play.

An excellent way to begin this process is to schedule a consultation by calling MidAtlantic Vascular and Interventional at 301-622-5360 today.