What are the Benefits of UFE?
Although UFE is not suitable for anyone, it has some benefits over traditional surgical management of fibroids (myomectomy) and management through medication.
- It’s safer than other alternatives – Current evidence and clinical study show that the risk of major complications is lower for UFE than other surgical fibroid treatment options.
- It’s effective – clinical studies have shown that UFE provides lasting relief from fibroid symptoms in 90-95% of women.
- It doesn’t preclude other treatments (if required) – For those who remain symptomatic, surgical options remain possible after UFE.
- Its recovery period is shorter – since surgical incisions aren’t used and damage to the body’s tissues is minimised, recovery is usually much quicker compared to invasive surgery methods.
UFE is also supported by the UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the UK and US Colleges of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, and the Cochrane Review, the international body that publishes guidance for physicians based on all available evidence. It is also endorsed by Australian RANZCOG, who state that the UFE is an effective, less invasive alternative to traditional methods, with fewer complications and quicker recovery than alternative methods.
What are the Risks of UFE?
UFE is generally considered to be a very safe procedure, but like all surgical procedures it carries a small risk of complications.
- Haematoma – a small bruise may form at the needle’s insertion site. This is quite normal and nothing to be concerned about. If it develops into a large bruise, it may need to be treated with antibiotics.
- Fibroid detachment – 2-3% of women will pass small pieces of fibroid a few months after the procedure. This happens when the fibroid dies and detaches from the uterine wall, and is not usually dangerous.
- Pelvic pain – Many patients experience some mild pain in the days following the procedure. This may feel similar to period pains, and can usually be managed with over-the-counter painkillers and anti-inflammatory medication.
- Infection – the uterus and needle insertion site may become infected if they are not adequately cared for in the following days.
- Hysterectomy – in very rare cases, UFE can lead to complications and infections which result in the uterus needing removal. This eliminates your ability to have children later on, but is very uncommon.
