Uterine fibroids are tumors or lumps of muscle cells and other tissue in the uterine wall. Based on the size or number of fibroids, patients may experience signs and symptoms such as:

• Heavy bleeding during mensuration
• Periods that last more than a week
• Pain or pressure in the pelvic area
• Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder
• Constipation
• Pain in the back or legs

Treatment

Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) has revolutionized the management of uterine fibroids. The procedure involves threading a catheter through the groin into the uterus. Microscopic spheres are injected into the fibroid, depriving the mass of its blood supply.

Benefits

More than 90 percent of patients experience an almost immediately end to excessive bleeding. Patients also show a decrease in the size of fibroids within 3-6 months after the procedure. Our physicians have performed UFE for more than 12 years and were among the first in the nation to participate in a National Institutes of Health multi-center trial. Our patients experience excellent success rates with minimal risk of complications.