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Uterine Fibroids: A New Way to Treat a Common Condition
Uterine fibroids are usually benign (non-cancerous) growths found on the wall of the uterus. Most women by age 50 will have fibroids, but may not experience the pain and discomfort that makes some women seek treatment. More African American women are affected by uterine fibroids.
Fibroids can be most bothersome during the child-bearing years, as hormones influence their growth and patients’ discomfort. As women enter the menopause through post-menopause years, fibroids tend to shrink and not be as painful.
Uterine fibroid symptoms include:
- Bloating in the pelvic area
- A feeling of fullness in the abdomen
- Pain during the menstrual cycle, or any time
- Heavy bleeding during the menstrual cycle
Women decide to seek treatment for fibroids if they experience enough pain and discomfort that it interrupts their daily lives.
The emotionally difficult decision of having a complete or partial hysterectomy used to be a woman’s only choice to treat fibroids and manage their symptoms. However, a new technologically advanced treatment called uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is helping thousands of women find relief from fibroids. UFE is safe and effective; many health insurance companies now cover the procedure. Interventional radiology specialists at Jefferson Radiology’s Farmington location perform this minimally invasive procedure with great success, and great satisfaction among patients.
UFE is an Option to Treat Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are diagnosed by ultrasound. Ultrasound is a pain free exam that helps specialists identify the location and size of the fibroid. UFE is performed as an outpatient procedure in a comfortable office setting. A small incision is made in the groin, and interventional radiologists use image guided technology and a thin tube called a catheter to locate the fibroid and inject small particles to block off its blood supply. This ultimately reduces the size of the fibroid and alleviates symptoms. Patients are given local anesthetic for the procedure, which can be up to one hour.
Women May Choose to Have UFE, in Collaboration With Their Physician, if:
- They have severe symptoms, such as pain, excessive bleeding, frequent urination, or bladder control problems
- They haven’t experienced menopause
- They are strongly opposed to hysterectomy
Jefferson Radiology specialists work closely with your OB/GYN to ensure you receive the right treatment option.
After the Procedure
Patients can expect fever, fatigue and full recovery within a week. It’s important to see your Jefferson Radiology interventional radiologist after the procedure, and continue to see your OB/GYN for regular exams.
Jefferson Radiology Offers Complete Diagnostic and Interventional Imaging Solutions
Jefferson Radiology is the largest, private practice radiology group in Connecticut, with seven locations. Experts here are specialists in advanced image-guided diagnostic and treatment solutions, including minimally invasive procedures to diagnose women’s health issues and other conditions. Our imaging expertise extends to diagnostic radiology, advanced women’s imaging, and interventional radiology procedures. For 45 years, Jefferson Radiology has been committed to high quality imaging solutions and an unsurpassed level of personal service to patients and referring physicians.
