Uterine Fibroid Embolization is one of the most common treatments for fibroid. Before a person makes a well-informed decision of whether to opt for surgery or UFE, they need to look at the advantage UFE has over surgery. The benefits of UFE over surgery can be stated as follows:
Benefits of UFE over Surgery
- UFE requires a small cut in the skin that doesn’t have to be stitched. This cut is almost harmless as compared to the incision created for surgery. It is one of the most minimally invasive procedures in comparison to the removal of an entire uterus in surgical procedures.
- In UFE patients are not restricted to prolong their stay at the hospital, they can leave as soon as the procedure is completed. They can also continue with their usual day-to-day activities within a week or even less.
- One of the biggest benefits of UFE is that the blood lost during this procedure is so minimal that it is near to none. Therefore, recovering from this procedure takes much less time as compared to the surgical methods that require proper care.
- The success rate of UFE is so much more as compared to that surgery. About 90% of the women who got their fibroid removed by UFE have reported positive resolution of their symptoms.
- UFE shrinks the fibroid to about half its size. There are no or fewer risks associated with the procedure. The risks involved are easily treatable.
- It is much less likely that fibroids will regrow after the UFE procedure because it treats all fibroids present in the uterus. The treatment is irrespective of the fibroid’s size, shape, or number. UFE is a more permanent solution as compared to surgeries.
- The effect of uterine fibroid on pregnancies is still unknown because there have been some healthy pregnancies. But the uncertainty remains.
Risks
Even though UFE comes with fewer risks as compared to surgery, they still should be considered. The presence of a catheter in this procedure may damage vessels, puncture them, or even infect them. In cases where a wrong place is lodged by the embolic figure, the tissues of that area will be deprived of blood flow and oxygen. In some women, the menstrual cycle after this procedure will be heavier and then eventually get better.
Given the benefits and risks associated with UFE in comparison to surgery can help you make a well-informed decision regarding what to choose. However, it is recommended to discuss this with your healthcare provider in more detail.
