UFE Fibroids: Effective Treatment for Large Growths
UFE Fibroids : Effective Treatment for Large Growths
Uterine
fibroid embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive procedure that has proven
effective in treating fibroids of various sizes, including large ones. Large
fibroids, which measure 10 cm or more in diameter, can cause significant
symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, frequent urination, and
lower back pain. They may also impact fertility and pregnancy outcomes.
Understanding Large Fibroids
Large
fibroids are benign tumors that grow within or on the uterus. They are
categorized based on their size:
Small: Less than 5 cm
Medium: 5-10 cm
Large: Over 10 cm
These
fibroids can be particularly problematic because they can exert pressure on
adjacent organs, leading to symptoms such as bloating, constipation, and a
visibly enlarged abdomen.
Symptoms of Large Fibroids
While
fibroids of any size can cause symptoms, large UFE
fibroids are more likely to result in severe issues, including:
Heavy and prolonged
menstrual bleeding
Severe menstrual cramps
Anemia due to heavy
bleeding
Pain during intercourse
Pressure on the bladder or
rectum, causing frequent urination or constipation
Lower back pain
These symptoms can significantly affect a woman's quality of life and overall health, making effective treatment crucial.
UFE: A Minimally Invasive Solution
Uterine
fibroid embolization (UFE) is a non-surgical treatment that targets fibroids by
cutting off their blood supply, causing them to shrink and eventually die. The
procedure involves the following steps:
Catheter Insertion: An interventional radiologist inserts a small catheter
into the uterine artery through a tiny incision.
Embolic Material
Injection: Tiny particles are injected
through the catheter into the blood vessels feeding the fibroid.
Blood Supply Blockage: The particles block the blood flow to the fibroid, leading to its shrinkage.
The entire
procedure is guided by real-time imaging, ensuring precision and effectiveness.
UFE typically takes less than an hour, and patients can return home the same
day. Recovery is quick, with most women resuming normal activities within one
to two weeks.
Effectiveness of UFE on Large Fibroids
Studies and
clinical practice have shown that UFE is highly effective in treating large
fibroids. The procedure not only alleviates symptoms but also reduces the size
of the fibroids significantly. Key benefits of UFE for large fibroids include:
Minimally Invasive: Unlike surgical options, UFE requires no large
incisions, reducing the risk of complications.
Outpatient Procedure: Patients can go home the same day, which minimizes disruption
to their daily lives.
High Success Rate: UFE has a success rate of approximately 90-95% in
symptom relief and fibroid shrinkage.
Fertility Preservation: UFE preserves the uterus, offering women the possibility of future pregnancies, unlike hysterectomy.
Comparing UFE to Surgical Options
UFE is often
compared to myomectomy (surgical removal of fibroids) and hysterectomy (removal
of the uterus). While these surgical options can be effective, they come with
higher risks and longer recovery times. Myomectomy, for instance, involves
significant surgical risks and a recovery period of several weeks.
Hysterectomy, while eliminating fibroids, also ends a woman's ability to bear
children and requires a lengthy recovery period.
In contrast,
UFE offers a safer, quicker, and less invasive alternative with comparable
effectiveness. This makes it an attractive option for women seeking relief from
large fibroids without the drawbacks of major surgery.
Conclusion
Uterine
fibroid embolization (UFE) is a proven and effective treatment for large
fibroids. It offers significant benefits, including being minimally invasive,
having a high success rate, and preserving fertility. Women suffering from the
debilitating symptoms of large fibroids should consider UFE as a viable
alternative to surgical options.
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