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.