Varicocele and uterine fibroids
Uterine fibroid embolization
Through a 2 mm access at the groin (femoral artery), the vessels feeding the fibroid are closed, causing it to progressively shrink. No scars, uterus preserved.
How it is performed
From the femoral artery at the groin, a very thin catheter is guided to the uterine arteries. Injecting microparticles selectively interrupts the blood supply to the fibroids, which undergo infarction and progressively shrink in volume over the following months, while healthy uterine tissue regains its blood supply. The uterus is preserved and there are no surgical scars.
Who it is for
- Symptomatic fibroids with heavy bleeding, anaemia, pain or a feeling of pelvic pressure
- Wish to avoid hysterectomy or myomectomy
- Contraindications to, or refusal of, surgery
Recovery
One night of observation or day-case admission. Cramping similar to menstrual cramps is expected in the first 24-48 hours, controlled with pain medication. Return to activities in about one week; symptoms and fibroid volume improve over 3-6 months.
Conditions treated in this area: chronic pelvic pain and pelvic varicocele, uterine fibroids with pain and bleeding.
Scientific evidence
The Cochrane review of randomised trials comparing embolization with surgery shows comparable patient satisfaction, with a shorter hospital stay and faster return to activities, against a higher likelihood of needing a further procedure over time. Gynaecological guidelines recognise it as an established option for symptomatic fibroids.
References on PubMed
- Uterine artery embolization for symptomatic uterine fibroids
Gupta JK, Sinha A, et al. — Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 2012 · PMID 22592701
- Updates in uterine artery embolization for leiomyomas
Kim A, Arabkhazaeli M, et al. — Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol, 2020 · PMID 32487798
- The management of uterine leiomyomas
Vilos GA, Allaire C, et al. — J Obstet Gynaecol Can, 2015 · PMID 25767949
Published data describe average results in groups of patients and are not a prediction of an individual outcome. The indication for treatment must always be assessed during a consultation.
Want to know if it is right for you?
At the first consultation we review your clinical history and previous imaging together.