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What is an interventional radiologist?
This is a medical doctor (M.D.) who specializes in using radiology and uses images to guide catheters and other devices in the body to treat many conditions that in the past have required surgery.
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Can my gynecologist perform the UFE procedure?
No. This is a highly technical procedure that requires the expertise and skills of an interventional radiologist who has undergone specific training.
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Is UFE safe?
Yes. Embolization of the uterine arteries has been performed by interventional radiologists since 1979 to treat conditions other than fibroids. And since 1995, tens of thousands of women have been safely treated for fibroids with UFE.
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Is UFE effective for multiple fibroids?
Yes. This procedure will treat all your fibroids regardless of their number, size or location.
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Is the procedure painful?
No. Once you are anesthetized, you will not feel any pain. However, there is some pain during the recovery period because women will develop pelvic cramps as their fibroids shrink. This pain can be alleviated with medication.
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Where do the plastic particles go once they are injected into my uterine blood vessels?
These particles remain in the blood vessels that directly supply blood to the fibroids. The fibroids have larger blood vessels than the rest of the tissue in the uterus, so the particles can easily enter the fibroid blood vessels without harming the rest of the uterus. The particles become caught within the fibroid blood vessels and are incorporated into a blood clot. There is no risk that these particles will flow into other parts of the body or cause an allergic reaction. These particles have been used for many years and have an excellent safety profile.
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What becomes of the fibroids after UFE?
The fibroids will shrink once they no longer have any blood supply. The tissue of the fibroid softens and it is slowly reabsorbed by the body. Rarely, some tissue can be passed through the cervix and vagina.
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What happens to my uterus after UFE?
The uterus survives embolization very well and can continue to remain healthy and fertile. Fertility cannot be guaranteed after the UFE procedure. However, successful pregnancy and childbirth has been reported by many women who have undergone UFE treatment.
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How long will it take to recover after UFE?
You will need one night in the hospital. By the next morning you will be feeling much better. After one week, most women fully resume their normal daily life activities.
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