Nearly two decades after the ground-breaking uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) procedure was introduced, the minimally invasive option to treat uterine fibroids still lags far behind hysterectomy, according to a recent medical study.
Even with nine out of 10 women realizing significant improvement and cessation of symptoms, with UFE, patient access as well as the education and awareness about the procedure still persists. This is according to the study presented at the Society of Interventional Radiology’s annual scientific meeting in March 2017.
The key to increasing access is raising awareness of the procedure and educating patients of all their treatment options for uterine fibroids. This education process should begin with the patient’s primary doctor or OB/GYNs.
What Are Uterine Fibroids
Fibroids are benign growths that grow from the muscle of the uterus. They are often called uterine leiomyomas or myomas. Fibroids can also spread to other parts of the body such as the vagina and bladder through an abnormal connection (fibroid tumor). Fibroids are not cancerous and rarely become malignant. It is difficult to determine if a mass in the uterus is a common fibroid or a rare cancerous tumor.
Fibroids are common in women. Approximately 80 percent of females will develop fibroids at some point in their lifetime. Though not all women experience bothersome symptoms. Treatments are available for fibroid-related problems like heavy menstrual bleeding, pain or pressure in the pelvis, or problems with pregnancy or infertility.
Risk Factors Of UFE
Uterine Fibrroid Embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat uterine fibroids, non-cancerous growths in the uterus that are common in women of reproductive age. While UFE provides a significant advantage in terms of reduced recovery times and lower risk compared to surgical options like hysterectomy, it’s crucial to understand its associated risk factors. Potential candidates must be well-informed about these considerations to make the best health decisions.
Age and Health Status
Health state and age can influence the outcome of UFE:
- Elderly women may have a heightened risk due to less physiological resilience and potentially more comorbid conditions.
- Women with certain health conditions, such as severe kidney disease or bleeding disorders, might face elevated risks during and after the procedure.
Size and Location of Fibroids
- Large fibroids might not respond as well to UFE, and could still necessitate surgical intervention after the procedure.
- Submucosal fibroids, located just beneath the lining of the uterus, might be associated with higher complication rates post-UFE, potentially affecting fertility.
Potential Complications of UFE
- Post-Embolization Syndrome: This includes symptoms like fever, nausea, and pain, and though typically temporary, it can be severe in some cases.
- Infection: Rarely, infection can be a serious complication that might require surgical intervention.
- Effects on Fertility: There is some debate about the impact on fertility. Women planning future pregnancies may choose to discuss alternative treatments.
Existing Vascular Conditions
- Vascular disease that impacts blood flow might complicate the UFE procedure or healing process. Pre-existing conditions such as atherosclerosis or venous insufficiency need careful assessment before proceeding with UFE.
Psychological Factors
- Stress and anxiety levels pre-procedure can affect recovery. Patients with significant anxiety might experience a longer or more complicated recovery period post-UFE.
Lifestyle Factors
- Smoking has been linked to poorer outcomes in almost all surgical treatments and might increase the risk of complications in UFE.
- Obesity can also complicate the procedure and recovery process, affecting everything from anesthesia to fibroid recurrence.
While UFE stands out as a less invasive option with a shorter recovery time than traditional surgery, recognizing and understanding the risk factors associated with this procedure is critical. Discussing these risks with a healthcare provider ensures that the patient’s health profile and fibroid characteristics are thoroughly evaluated. This comprehensive assessment helps make an informed decision and prepare for a successful outcome. If you are considering UFE and are concerned about the risk factors, scheduling a consultation with a specialist is advisable.
Uterine Fibroid Studies
“It is vitally important that anyone who comes for treatment of fibroids be presented with all of the possible treatment options. Then they can make their own informed choice,” said Prasoon Mohan, MD, MRCS, an assistant professor of clinical IR at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine whose team conducted the study.
A study analyzed data from the 2012 and 2013 Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS). This is the largest all-payer inpatient health care database in the country. This study is used to quantify the use of UFE relative to hysterectomy.
The researchers found that 167,650 hysterectomies were performed in these cases vs 2,470 UFE treatments. UFE resulted in hospital stays of 2.16 days vs 2.32 days for hysterectomy and cost approximately $21,583 vs $33,104. Women who chose UFE had more chronic conditions than did women who chose hysterectomy. In addition, rural hospitals performed 0.4% of UFE treatments but 9.4% of hysterectomies, and small hospitals performed 7.9% of UFE treatments versus 67.4% in large hospital systems.
The National Institutes of Health estimates nearly three out of four women will develop fibroids by age 50. These develop from uterine muscular wall tissue and can vary in size from small to very large. Women who are overweight, black, older than 40, have high blood pressure, have had no children, or have a first-degree relative with fibroids are at higher risk of developing them. Fibroids are usually asymptomatic but can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure or pain, abdominal enlargement, pain with intercourse, constipation, and frequent urination.
5 Key Things to Know About UFE: Your Guide to UFE Education
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive procedure that offers a promising alternative to surgery for women suffering from uterine fibroids. Understanding this procedure is essential for making an informed decision about your health. Here are five important things you should know about UFE:
1. UFE Is Minimally Invasive
UFE is performed using a small catheter inserted into the blood vessels that feed the fibroids. Tiny particles are injected to block blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink. Unlike traditional surgery, UFE requires no large incision, leading to less pain and a shorter recovery period. UFE education highlights its ability to preserve the uterus, making it a popular choice for women who wish to avoid hysterectomy.
2. UFE Effectively Treats Most Fibroids
UFE works for treating multiple types of fibroids, including those that cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure, and pain. It helps shrink fibroids significantly and alleviates symptoms without the need for surgical removal. As part of your UFE education, it’s important to understand that results may vary depending on the size, number, and location of fibroids.
3. UFE Recovery Is Relatively Quick
Most patients can return to normal activities within one to two weeks after UFE. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis in many cases, meaning you can go home the same day. Pain and cramping are normal during the initial recovery period but typically improve within days. UFE education emphasizes its faster recovery compared to invasive surgical options like hysterectomy.
4. UFE May Impact Fertility
While UFE is effective for treating fibroids, it may have implications for future fertility. Women who plan to conceive should consult their doctor and discuss potential alternatives to UFE. Being educated about this aspect of UFE will ensure that patients make a fully informed decision regarding their reproductive health.
5. UFE Is Not Suitable for Everyone
Not all women with fibroids are ideal candidates for UFE. Factors such as fibroid size, location, and overall health play a role in determining suitability. A thorough evaluation by a vascular specialist or interventional radiologist is critical as part of the UFE education process to determine if this treatment is the best option for your unique situation.
Stay Informed with UFE Education
UFE is a revolutionary treatment option for uterine fibroids, offering a safe and effective alternative to surgery. By understanding these key aspects through proper UFE education, women are empowered to make informed choices about their health. If you’re considering UFE, consult a qualified specialist to discuss your symptoms and personalized treatment plan.
What Is UFE Treatment?
During a UFE procedure, an interventional radiologist inserts a thin catheter into a wrist or groin artery and guides it to the fibroid’s blood supply. Particles the size of sand grains are released and block small vessels that feed the fibroid. Typically, the fibroid softens, bleeds less, and shrinks. The main side effect is severe cramping in the first 12 to 24 hours after the procedure. This is treated preemptively with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and a pain pump.
Not all women are candidates for UFE, however. There are still questions about whether women who plan to have children should undergo the procedure. Myomectomy in those cases may be the better option. There may also be cases where hysterectomy is the best option. Whichever option may be most suitable, women need should be informed that UFE is a possibility.
Coastal Vascular Center is dedicated to providing excellent patient care. Our goal is to maximize results while minimizing the time you spend at our clinic. Coastal Vascular Center specializes in treating Uterine Fibroids. Contact us today to make an appointment for a consultation.
