Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Piedmont offers one of the most advanced treatments for uterine fibroids, Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE). UFE works by cutting off the blood supply to a fibroid, causing it to shrink, a clinically proven and minimally invasive procedure that offers several advantages for some women. 

Fibroids are benign (non-cancerous) growths in the uterus.  While they often develop in women during their 20s, most women usually do not have symptoms until their 30s and 40s.  One in every three women over the age of 30 has uterine fibroids, and women of African American descent are two to three times more likely to develop fibroids than women of other races.

Patients with fibroids experience various symptoms, the most common being abnormal uterine bleeding that may lead to anemia. Depending on the size of the fibroid, some women experience abdominal or pelvic pain; others may notice increased urinary frequency, pain in the back or thighs, and some fibroids may lead to abdominal cramps or constipation. 

The UFE procedure is typically less than an hour and requires only a small incision. The benefits include a quick return to everyday activities and a lower complication rate, allowing women to retain their uterus and ovaries. As one of the alternatives to hysterectomy procedures, UFE involves only one to four days of recovery instead of six to eight weeks after a hysterectomy.

An interventional radiologist performs the procedure.  Following post-procedure care with the interventional radiologist, patients return to their gynecologist for ongoing care. 

The interventional radiologists at Piedmont are nationally recognized leaders in UFE.  More UFE procedures are performed throughout Piedmont Healthcare than any other healthcare system in Georgia.