What is Interventional
Radiology?
Interventional Radiology (IR) applies medical imaging to assist doctors to diganose and treat issues related to blood and lymph vessels within the body.
Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a minimally-invasive procedure used to treat fibroid tumors of the uterus. These benign tumors can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, urinary incontinence and pressure on the bladder or bowel. The location and size of uterine fibroids often determines a patient’s symptom severity and impact on overall quality of life. They can range in size from a small grape to a large cantaloupe.
How it Works
During a UFE procedure, an interventional radiologist uses a form of live x-ray called fluoroscopy to guide the delivery of embolic particles to the uterus and fibroids. These agents block the arteries that provide blood to the fibroids and cause them to shrink. Nearly 90% of women who undergo a UFE experience significant or complete resolution of their fibroid-related symptoms.
Efficacy
Nearly 90 percent of women who undergo a uterine fibroid embolization experience significant or complete resolution of their fibroid-related symptoms.
