Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)
UFE is a minimally invasive treatment that reduces blood supply to uterine fibroids so they shrink and symptoms improve.
When to get help quickly: The procedure is not usually an emergency, but prompt review is important if bleeding is very heavy, severe pain develops after treatment, fever occurs, or there is offensive discharge.
Common symptoms
This treatment is usually considered for fibroid symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure, abdominal swelling, frequent urination, pain, or anaemia from ongoing blood loss.
When imaging helps
Imaging helps confirm the fibroids, map the blood supply, and guide the catheter safely into the uterine arteries during the procedure.
What radiology does
Interventional radiologists use imaging guidance to reach the uterine arteries and deliver embolic material.
What usually happens next
It is one option for symptomatic fibroids, especially for selected patients who want a non-surgical treatment approach.
Need this done?
See which centers in Lagos offer it.
Related scan guides
- Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a non-surgical treatment that shrinks fibroids in the womb. It offers a less invasive alternative to a hysterectomy, allowing you to keep your reproductive organs intact.
- General Interventional Radiology (IR) EducationInterventional Radiology (IR) represents a shift in modern medicine, offering targeted treatments using image guidance. Instead of open surgery, doctors use real-time pictures to guide tiny instruments through blood vessels or small pathways in the body.