Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Fibroids are benign, non-cancerous growths of the uterus that may cause heavy or prolonged menstrual cycles, fatigue, pelvic pain and frequent urination, among other symptoms.

Fibroids can be treated in many different ways. To treat this condition, Atlantic Health System offers uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) – a non-surgical procedure that shrinks fibroids while preserving normal uterine tissue.

Traditional UFE uses an artery in the groin to pass tubes into the uterine arteries, through which tiny particles are injected to block the flow of blood to the fibroids. During this procedure, patients must remain immobile and lie flat on their back for up to four hours after treatment has ended.

The interventional radiologists at Atlantic Health System performs UFE using the artery in the left wrist – also known as the radial artery – instead of the groin, which is safer and makes for an easier recovery. Patients have the option of either sitting up or lying on their side, so they can put themselves in the position that’s most comfortable for them.

The entire procedure takes less than an hour to complete, may require only a one-night hospital stay and patients may return to work within five to 10 days. Throughout the process, our team of fellowship-trained interventional radiologists will work closely with referring OBGYNs to provide a seamless level of care.

Women who have symptomatic fibroids, do not plan to get pregnant in the future or would like to avoid a hysterectomy may be candidates for radial artery approach UFE.

What's more Overlook Medical Center offers the Atlantic Fibroid Center at Overlook Medical Center. Learn more >