Exploring the basics of uterine fibroid embolization

Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that develop in the muscular wall of the uterus. They can be as small as a pea or large enough to weigh up to one pound. Fibroids develop when excess estrogen stimulates muscle and connective tissue growth within the uterus. The tissue then collects and forms a mass under the uterine lining, thickening its walls. Most of these go undetected until they cause symptoms like pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, enlarged abdomen, or back pain. Even though most fibroids develop inside of the uterus, an estimated 10% occur outside of the uterus. This can lead to serious issues if not caught soon enough. These are known as submucous fibroids which cause the same regular symptoms of fibroids but include complications such as excessive bleeding and infertility.

How to prepare for uterine fibroid embolization?

Uterine fibroid embolization in Houston is a minimally invasive procedure that can help treat fibroids and the symptoms that come with them. The process involves inserting a small catheter into a vein in your groin area, which is then guided to the uterine artery. Once it's in place, a radiologist will inject tiny particles into the arteries feeding blood flow to your fibroid. The particles block blood flow, starving the fibroid of oxygen and causing it to shrink over time.

Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is usually done on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. It takes 30 minutes to an hour to complete, but you'll spend one night in the hospital afterward so that doctors can monitor you for complications such as heavy bleeding or infection. There are no special preparations for uterine fibroid embolization other than not eating or drinking anything after midnight before your surgery appointment time (usually between 9:00 am-noon). If you're considering UFE, talk with your doctor about what to expect from the procedure — from preparation through recovery — so you know what to expect during and after your treatment session.

What can you expect during and after the procedure?

• During the procedure:

You'll lie on your back or side, and your doctor will inject a local anesthetic into the area of your skin where the filler is to be injected. The anesthetic numbs the area, but you may feel some discomfort when the needle goes in and during the injection. Your doctor will then inject a small amount of filler into your scar. It's important to remember that everyone's body responds differently to injections and fillers, so you may have more or less discomfort than what's described here.

• After the procedure:

You can expect some redness, swelling, and bruising in the treated area for a few days after treatment. The redness should fade within 48 hours after treatment, but any bruising may last up to two weeks after treatment. You'll also notice temporary changes in the pigment (color) of your skin in the treated area — these changes are usually temporary as well.

Afterward, you can go home and resume normal activities immediately unless otherwise instructed by your doctor or nurse.

Name: Access Vascular Health

Address: 5151 Katy Freeway Suite 170, Houston, TX, 77007, United States

Phone: 832-981-5781