uterine fibroids Archives

July 8, 2025July 8, 2025

Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are benign tumors that grow in or on the uterus. Affecting as many as 70% to 80% of women by the age of 50, fibroids can cause a range of symptoms including heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure, and infertility. Traditionally, surgical interventions like hysterectomy and myomectomy have been the primary treatment options, but in recent years, Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) has emerged as a less invasive alternative. UFE has gained significant attention due to its promising outcomes, shorter recovery time, and preservation of the uterus.

What is Uterine Fibroid Embolization?

Uterine Fibroid Embolization is a minimally invasive procedure performed by an interventional radiologist. During the procedure, small particles are injected into the uterine arteries via a catheter. These particles block the blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink and eventually die. Over time, this alleviates the symptoms caused by the fibroids, including heavy bleeding and pain. UFE offers a non-surgical approach, making it an appealing option for women who wish to avoid the risks associated with major surgery.

Latest Research on UFE and Patient Outcomes

Research in recent years has demonstrated UFE’s effectiveness, safety, and durability as a treatment for symptomatic fibroids. A growing body of evidence points to several key advantages that UFE offers over traditional surgical methods.

1. High Success Rates in Symptom Relief

Numerous studies have shown that UFE effectively relieves fibroid-related symptoms for the vast majority of patients. According to a study published in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology, approximately 85-90% of women who undergo UFE experience significant relief from symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure. In addition, follow-up studies indicate that these improvements are long-lasting, with most patients reporting continued symptom relief for up to five years post-procedure.

2. Impact on Fertility and Pregnancy Outcomes

While hysterectomy eliminates fertility, UFE preserves the uterus, and recent research has explored its implications for future fertility. Early concerns that UFE could negatively affect fertility have been challenged by more recent studies, which show that while it may not be the first choice for women actively trying to conceive, many women can still achieve pregnancy post-UFE. A study published in Fertility and Sterility found that the pregnancy rate after UFE was 40-50%, with most pregnancies resulting in healthy births. However, myomectomy may still be preferred for women primarily seeking fertility preservation.

3. Lower Complication Rates Compared to Surgery

One of the primary advantages of UFE is its lower risk of complications compared to more invasive surgical options. A comparative study published in The New England Journal of Medicine revealed that UFE has a complication rate of less than 5%, which is significantly lower than the rates seen with hysterectomy or myomectomy. Post-operative recovery is faster, with most patients returning to normal activities within 1-2 weeks, compared to the 6-8 weeks required after a hysterectomy. The minimally invasive nature of UFE also reduces the risk of infections, bleeding, and other surgical complications.

4. Preservation of the Uterus and Improved Quality of Life

For many women, preserving the uterus is a critical factor when choosing a treatment option. UFE provides this benefit while still effectively managing fibroid symptoms. A study conducted by the Society of Interventional Radiology demonstrated that women who undergo UFE report high levels of satisfaction, with 90% of patients indicating that they would recommend the procedure to others. Moreover, quality of life scores significantly improve after UFE, as patients experience relief from the debilitating symptoms of fibroids without sacrificing their reproductive organs.

Emerging Trends and Innovations in UFE

Recent innovations in UFE are further enhancing its effectiveness and patient outcomes. Advanced imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided UFE, allow for more precise targeting of fibroids, improving the procedure’s success rate. Additionally, smaller particle sizes are being investigated to achieve more complete embolization while minimizing side effects like post-procedural pain.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization represents a groundbreaking treatment for uterine fibroids, offering women an effective, safe, and less invasive alternative to surgery. With high success rates in symptom relief, lower complication risks, and shorter recovery times, UFE is transforming how fibroids are managed. While it may not be the best option for all women, particularly those seeking to optimize fertility, UFE has proven to be a valuable treatment for many women dealing with the life-altering effects of fibroids. Ongoing research and advancements in this field continue to refine and improve patient outcomes, making UFE an increasingly popular choice for women worldwide.

June 20, 2025June 21, 2025

admin FAQS & Myths

Liberating Women from Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids, those pesky benign tumors that develop in the uterus, can wreak havoc on a woman’s life. But fear not, ladies! There’s a non-surgical route to freedom from these troublemakers. Here through this article we explore how uterine fibroids can be treated without resorting to surgery, and why it’s a game-changer.

Understanding the Early Symptoms:

Imagine your body as a finely tuned instrument, delicately attuned to any deviations from its natural rhythm. When uterine fibroids begin to form, they may initially go unnoticed, manifesting in subtle changes that are easy to dismiss. But paying attention to these early symptoms can be the key to unlocking timely intervention.

One of the first signs to watch out for is changes in your menstrual cycle. Have you noticed your periods becoming unusually heavy or lasting longer than usual? Do you experience pelvic pain or pressure, especially during menstruation? These seemingly minor disturbances could be your body’s way of signaling the presence of uterine fibroids.

First Warning Sign:

Before other symptoms become too unbearable, there’s often a subtle warning sign that shouldn’t be ignored: abnormal menstrual bleeding. Whether it’s unusually heavy periods, prolonged bleeding, or spotting between cycles, any deviation from your normal menstrual pattern warrants attention. Other early symptoms may include frequent urination, constipation, or discomfort during intercourse. While these signs may not immediately raise alarm bells, they shouldn’t be brushed aside. Instead, listen to your body’s whispers and seek medical advice if anything seems amiss.

Ignoring these signs could allow fibroids to grow unchecked, leading to more severe symptoms down the road.

Unleashing the Power of Non-Surgical Treatments:

Picture this: You’re a woman navigating through the labyrinth of life when suddenly, uterine fibroids throw you off course. Traditional treatments often involve invasive surgeries, causing discomfort, downtime, and potential complications. But fear not! Non-surgical treatments offer a beacon of hope.

One such method is uterine fibroid embolization (UFE). This minimally invasive procedure involves blocking the blood vessels that feed the fibroids, causing them to shrink and vanish into oblivion. As a woman who’s undergone UFE, let me tell you, it’s a game-changer! Minimal recovery time, no surgical scars, and best of all, bidding farewell to those pesky fibroids.

Why Surgery Isn't the Holy Grail:

Ah, surgery, the age-old solution to medical woes. Whether it’s a myomectomy (fibroid removal) or hysterectomy (uterus removal), comes with its fair share of risks and side effects.

For starters, surgical procedures entail a longer recovery period, often requiring weeks or even months of downtime. Not to mention the potential for complications such as infection, excessive bleeding, or damage to surrounding organs. And let’s not forget the psychological toll of undergoing major surgery. It’s enough to make any woman second-guess her options.

What Women Truly Fear:

Behind the clinical jargon and medical charts lies a tapestry of women’s fears and concerns when facing uterine fibroids. From the fear of infertility to the dread of chronic pain, the emotional burden can be overwhelming.

For many women, the thought of losing their fertility due to fibroids is a nightmare come to life. The uncertainty of whether they’ll be able to conceive and carry a child weighs heavily on their minds, casting a shadow over their hopes and dreams of motherhood.

Then there’s the physical discomfort that accompanies uterine fibroids – the pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and pressure on the bladder and bowel. It’s like living with a constant reminder of your body’s betrayal, disrupting daily life and robbing you of your vitality.

Uterine fibroids may be a formidable foe, but they’re no match for the power of non-surgical treatments. By embracing alternatives like uterine fibroid embolization, women can reclaim control over their bodies without the risks and downtime associated with surgery. So, to all the women out there facing fibroid fears, remember, there’s a light at the end of the tunnel – and it doesn’t require a scalpel to reach it.

Call our expert doctors at Avis Vascular center, and know your possible treatment options including embolization.

May 19, 2025June 9, 2025

admin Diagnosis and Treatments

Advanced Fibroid Treatment in India

Meena’s life with fibroids was marked by a series of relentless challenges. Her days were overshadowed by excruciating pelvic pain and abnormally heavy menstrual bleeding, turning routine activities into exhausting events. The constant discomfort led to frequent, disruptive trips to the bathroom, and the intense bleeding caused anemia, leaving her perpetually tired. Meena found herself withdrawing from gatherings to avoid embarrassment, and professionally, her performance suffered due to the pain and fatigue. Her struggle with fibroids was not just a physical battle but an emotional and social ordeal that affected every aspect of her life.

Uterine fibroids, non-cancerous growths in the uterus, are a common health issue among Indian women. These fibroids can lead to symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and fertility issues, significantly impacting the quality of life.

What is Fibroid Embolization?

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), also known as Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE), is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat fibroids. It involves blocking the blood supply to the fibroids, causing them to shrink and die.

The Embolization Procedure

Performed by an interventional radiologist, the procedure involves making a small incision in the groin or wrist. A catheter is then guided through the artery to the uterus using imaging techniques. Tiny particles are injected to block the arteries supplying blood to the fibroids.

Comparative Cost Analysis of Embolization and Other Fibroid Treatments in India

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)

Cost Range: The cost of UFE in India typically ranges from INR 1,50,000 to INR 2,50,000.

Factors Influencing Cost: The cost varies based on the hospital’s location, the expertise of the interventional radiologist, and the complexity of the procedure.

Hysterectomy (Surgical Removal of the Uterus)

Cost Range: A hysterectomy can cost between INR 50,000 to INR 2,00,000 in India.

Factors Influencing Cost: The type of hysterectomy (abdominal, vaginal, or laparoscopic), hospital tier, and surgeon’s expertise impact the cost.

Myomectomy (Surgical Removal of Fibroids)

Cost Range: The cost for a myomectomy ranges from INR 75,000 to INR 2,50,000.

Factors Influencing Cost: The surgical approach (open surgery vs. minimally invasive), number and size of fibroids, and hospital facilities play a role in determining the cost.

Medication and Hormone Therapy

Cost Range: Ongoing medical management can vary greatly, from INR 500 to INR 5,000 per month.

Factors Influencing Cost: Type of medication, duration of treatment, and whether generic or brand-name drugs are used.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

UFE vs. Hysterectomy/Myomectomy: While UFE may initially seem more expensive than some surgical options, it is important to consider the quicker recovery time and lower indirect costs (like loss of income during recovery). UFE also preserves the uterus, which can be a significant consideration for many women.

Long-Term Costs: Surgical treatments like hysterectomy and myomectomy are one-time expenses, whereas medication costs accrue over time and can eventually surpass the cost of a single procedure.

Indirect Costs: Recovery time, post-surgery care, and potential complications can add significant indirect costs to surgical treatments, which are generally lower for UFE.

While UFE may have a higher upfront cost compared to certain surgical options, its benefits of being minimally invasive, having a shorter recovery time, and preserving the uterus often justify the expense. Moreover, the long-term economic impact, including the indirect costs associated with surgery and ongoing medical management, should be considered when evaluating the overall affordability of fibroid treatments in India.