Uterine Artery Embolization in Los Angeles

Conditions

UTERINE FIBROIDS

Uterine fibroids are benign growths in the uterus. The condition occurs in up to 30 to 40% of women. Fibroids may occur due to changes in estrogen and progesterone levels. Genetics is also considered a cause of uterine fibroids.

Types of uterine fibroids

Fibroids are classified by their location. Intramural fibroids are located on the wall of the uterine muscle. Submucosal fibroids bulge inward toward the endometrial cavity. Subserosal fibroids project outward from the uterus.

Uterine fibroid symptoms

While uterine fibroids may have no symptoms at all, some of the most common signs of uterine fibroids are:

Pelvic pain: Pelvic discomfort that persists may indicate uterine fibroids. Acute pelvic pain can also develop when a fibroid is no longer nourished by the blood supply.

Bloating: Fibroids can be small or large. The larger fibroids cause the abdomen to bulge, similar to the appearance of bloating.

Visible bulge on the abdomen: Fibroids are usually small. However, sometimes large fibroids develop, causing an unsightly bulge on the abdomen.

Heavy periods (menorrhagia): Heavy menstrual bleeding has numerous causes. In some cases, it may indicate that uterine fibroids are present. A heavy menstrual flow is inconvenient and uncomfortable for women that struggle with menorrhagia. Spotting or bleeding between periods may also occur.

Prolonged menstrual period: Periods that last longer than normal can indicate the presence of uterine fibroids. A normal menstrual period lasts one week or less.

Anemia: Heavy periods due to uterine fibroids may cause anemia in women. Anemia is a condition linked to low red blood cell count and iron deficiency. Tiredness, weakness, and changes in hair, nail, and skin quality are some of the most common symptoms of anemia.

Frequent urination: A large uterine fibroid may press on the bladder. The patient may experience the urge to urinate more often than usual.

Constipation: Organs located near the fibroid may become compressed by a uterine fibroid that is increasing in size. When the bowels are compressed by a nearby fibroid, constipation and bloating may occur.

Back pain: Large uterine fibroids may press on nerves, causing backache or sciatica.

If you have been diagnosed with fibroids, please consult with Centinela Radiology to determine if uterine artery embolization (UAE) is right for you.

Procedures

UTERINE ARTERY EMBOLIZATION

This minimally invasive procedure reduces blood flow to the uterus, causing the fibroid to shrink. The blood flow is reduced by injecting embolic agents (usually small beads) into the blood vessels that supply the fibroid, causing it to shrink. The uterus is not incised or removed in any way.

Uterine artery embolization:

• Minimally invasive
• FDA approved
• Does not require open surgery
• Performed under conscious sedation
• Has minimal downtime
• Up to 85% effective

Procedure: Uterine artery embolization is performed while the patient is under conscious sedation. The interventional radiologist accesses the femoral artery, located at the groin. Embolic agents (usually small beads) are injected into the artery that supplies blood to the uterus. This reduces blood flow to the uterus, causing the fibroids to shrink and die over the next few weeks. The blood vessel in the groin is closed and the skin is bandaged.

What to expect after treatment

It is normal to feel drowsy after the procedure. Bedrest is advised on the first day, patients are welcome to stay overnight at the hospital for monitoring and to receive strong pain medication. Fibroid shrinking occurs in the few weeks after treatment. Symptoms caused by the fibroids improve as a result. Schedule a uterine artery embolization today by calling Centinela Radiology Medical Group at 310-419-0597.

FAQ

How successful is UFE?

Uterine fibroid embolization is highly effective. The estimated success rate of the procedure is 85%. A small number of women will need a repeat UFE treatment after a few years.

Who is most likely to develop uterine fibroids?

An estimated 30 to 40% of women develop uterine fibroids at some point in life. Often, they develop during a woman’s childbearing years. It is rare for a woman to have uterine fibroids after menopause, and commonly fibroids can naturally shrink after menopause.

How are uterine fibroids diagnosed?

Pelvic ultrasound is usually the first imaging exam to diagnose fibroids. An CTA and MRI is also commonly performed prior to uterine artery embolization.

Do uterine fibroids go away on their own?

Some uterine fibroids shrink and disappear without medical intervention, especially after menopause. If fibroids are impeding a woman’s quality of life, then undergoing uterine fibroid treatment is advisable.

Are uterine fibroids dangerous?

No, a uterine fibroid is considered harmless. The fibroid itself is a benign growth. However, they can impact a woman’s quality of life when symptoms are present.

Is it possible for uterine fibroids to be asymptomatic?

Uterine fibroids often do not have obvious symptoms.

How big are uterine fibroids?

Uterine fibroids can be any size. A large fibroid or cluster of fibroids may distort the uterus or cause a visible bulge on the abdomen.

Do uterine fibroids require treatment?

Uterine fibroids are benign and do not require medical intervention if they are not causing troublesome symptoms or affecting quality of life. Such symptoms include heavy periods, pain, anemia, frequent urination, bowel blockage, or compressed organs. Centinela Radiology offers a non surgical option to shrink fibroids.