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Uterine fibroid embolisation (UFE) through interventional radiology: An advanced treatment option.

Uterine fibroid embolisation (UFE) through interventional radiology: An advanced treatment option.

Uterine fibroids, medically known as leiomyomas, are benign (non-cancerous) growths that develop from the smooth muscle tissue of the uterus. These growths are incredibly common, affecting women by the time they reach their reproductive age. Although many women with fibroids experience no symptoms at all, for some, fibroids can cause a range of significant and distressing problems.

These symptoms often include heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding, which can lead to anaemia; pelvic pain or a persistent feeling of pressure in the lower abdomen; frequent urination or constipation caused by pressure on the bladder or bowel; and, in some cases, difficulties with fertility or complications during pregnancy.

Why it happens? What are the reasons behind it?

It is due to vocal cord nodules/lesions. Let us understand this condition in detail. Vocal cord lesions are non-cancerous (benign) growths or abnormalities that develop on the vocal cords, often due to vocal strain, misuse, or other irritants.

For decades, the primary treatment for symptomatic uterine fibroids has been surgical. The most definitive solution, hysterectomy (removal of the entire uterus), effectively eliminates fibroids but also permanently ends a woman's ability to bear children. Myomectomy, which involves the surgical removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus, is another option that requires open or laparoscopic surgery and comes with risks such as bleeding, infection, and long recovery times.

In recent years, interventional radiology has revolutionised the management of uterine fibroids by offering a minimally invasive alternative called uterine fibroid embolisation (UFE). This innovative procedure involves the targeted blockage of blood vessels supplying the fibroids, effectively cutting off their blood flow and causing them to shrink and die.

Performed through a small puncture in the groin or wrist under local anaesthesia, UFE avoids the need for major surgery and typically allows for a quicker recovery with less pain. As a uterus-preserving treatment, UFE provides women with an important option to relieve symptoms while maintaining their reproductive potential, making it a valuable choice for many patients seeking effective and less invasive fibroid management.

At KD Hospital, we have cutting-edge treatment led by experienced interventional radiologist and supported by state-of-the-art infrastructure. Read on to learn about UFE and why KD Hospital is the preferred destination for this modern procedure.

What are uterine fibroids?

Fibroids are benign tumours made of smooth muscle and connective tissue. Depending on their location, they are:

  • Intramural – within the uterine wall
  • Submucosal – projecting into the uterine cavity
  • Subserosal – on the outer surface of the uterus
  • Pedunculated – attached by a stalk to the uterus

Symptoms can range from none to:

  • Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
  • Pelvic or back pain
  • Bloating or abdominal distention
  • Urinary frequency
  • Constipation
  • Infertility or pregnancy-related issues

What is uterine fibroid embolisation (UFE)?

Uterine fibroid embolisation is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure by interventional radiologists to shrink fibroids by blocking their blood supply.

Procedure overview:

  • Access: A catheter is inserted into an artery through a tiny incision in the groin or wrist.
  • Imaging guidance: Using fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray), the catheter is guided to the uterine arteries.
  • Embolisation: Tiny biocompatible particles are injected to block the arteries supplying blood to the fibroids.
  • Result: Starved of nutrients, the fibroids shrink over time, reducing symptoms significantly.

The procedure usually takes 1 to 2 hours and does not require general anaesthesia.

Advantages of uterine fibroid embolisation:

  • Minimally invasive: No major incisions or stitches
  • Shorter recovery time: Most patients resume routine activity within a week
  • Preserves the uterus: Ideal for women who want to avoid hysterectomy
  • Outpatient or short hospital stay
  • Effective symptom relief: Over 85–90% of women experience significant improvement
  • Low complication rate compared to surgery

Who is an ideal candidate?

UFE is suitable for women who:

  • Experience fibroid-related symptoms
  • Want to avoid surgery or cannot undergo it
  • Wish to preserve their uterus

UFE may not be suitable for:

  • Pregnant women
  • Women with suspected uterine cancer or active pelvic infection
  • Certain fibroid configurations (to be evaluated via MRI/ultrasound)

What to expect post-uterine fibroid embolisation:

  • Mild to moderate pelvic cramping for 24–72 hours
  • Post embolisation syndrome: Low-grade fever, malaise, and nausea, which resolve within a few days
  • Fibroid shrinkage over several months
  • Improved menstrual bleeding and pain typically within 1–3 months
  • Imaging follow-up to track fibroid response

Uterine fibroid embolisation vs surgical options:

Treatment Invasiveness Uterus Preservation Recovery Time Suitability
Hysterectomy Highly invasive No 4–6 weeks Women done with childbearing
Myomectomy Moderately invasive Yes 2–4 weeks Fertility preservation
UFE Minimally invasive Yes 5–10 days Women seeking non-surgical relief

Why Choose KD Hospital for uterine fibroid embolisation?

KD Hospital stands out as a centre of excellence for uterine fibroid embolisation, owing to the following key strengths:

  • Expert interventional radiology team:
    Our board-certified interventional radiologists are highly skilled in UFE and performed numerous successful procedures with excellent outcomes. They collaborate closely with gynaecologists for a personalised, patient-first approach.
  • Advanced imaging & cath lab facilities:
    KD Hospital has cutting-edge DSA (Digital subtraction angiography) suites, high-resolution ultrasound, and 1.5T MRI that ensure precise targeting and safe delivery of embolic material.
  • Multidisciplinary support:
    We offer a seamless, coordinated care experience involving:
    • Radiologists
    • Gynaecologists
    • Anaesthetists
    • Pain specialists
    • Counsellors

It ensures holistic treatment and comprehensive pre-and post-procedure care.

  • Minimally invasive focus:
    KD Hospital emphasises minimally invasive therapies across specialities, minimising complications and promoting faster recovery.
  • Patient centric experience:
    From detailed counselling sessions to personalised follow-up plans, we prioritise comfort, transparency, and patient education at every step.
  • Dedicated women's health services:
    Our specialised women's health unit supports patients with uterine fibroids, infertility concerns, and gynaecological issues, offering diagnostic and therapeutic services under one roof.

Happy patients at KD Hospital:

When I first met the doctor, I was advised to undergo a hysterectomy, which frightened me. A friend recommended that I consult at KD Hospital, where I learned about uterine fibroid embolisation (UFE). I underwent the procedure and am so glad I came here—I was able to save my uterus.
— A 42-year woman from Ahmedabad

My fibroid symptoms had become unbearable, but I wanted to avoid surgery. The interventional radiology team at KD Hospital explained everything clearly and patiently. The procedure was painless, and I was back at work within a week!
— A 36-year woman from Vadodara

KD Hospital: Comprehensive treatment under one roof.

In a nutshell:

Uterine fibroid embolisation is transforming the treatment of fibroid symptoms—offering relief without surgery, scarring, or prolonged downtime. For women who value uterus preservation and a quick recovery, uterine fibroid embolisation is an empowering option.

At KD Hospital, we combine modern technology, medical expertise, and compassionate care to ensure the best outcomes for women facing fibroid-related challenges.

If you're experiencing symptoms or have been diagnosed with fibroids, schedule a consultation with our interventional radiology or gynaecology teams. We'll help you explore UFE and other personalised treatment options suited to your lifestyle and health goals.