Uterine fibroid is a common health problem seen in many people. They are non-cancerous tumors that grow on the uterus. The size of the uterine fibroid ranges from a small size to a size of a grape fruit or larger. Fibroids may not cause any problems or signs in some people. But for some women, uterine fibroids can cause serious signs such as pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, painful intercourse, etc. Many people seek treatment for fibroids if the signs are affecting their quality of life.
There are different treatment options for uterine fibroids. Fibroid embolization is an effective and less invasive method for treating fibroids.
What is Fibroid Embolization and How is It Performed?
A fibroid embolization procedure is performed by an interventional radiologist without the need for surgery. The procedure focuses on blocking the blood supply to the fibroids and then destroying them.
You will be under sedation so that you feel drowsy and feels no pain during the procedure. During the procedure, a small cut is made in the groin region. From the incision, the catheter will be inserted and directed towards the artery that supplies blood to the fibroids. Now, a contrast dye is passed through the catheter. This is called fluoroscopy and it generates an image of what is happening inside the body. The radiologist uses the image during the procedure.
Now, tiny particles are released through the catheter to block the blood supply to the fibroid. Due to the lack of blood supply, the fibroid does not get enough nutrients and they eventually shrink. Fibroid embolization can treat any number of fibroids irrespective of their size.
What to Expect After Fibroid Embolization?
The recovery from fibroid embolization varies from one person to another. In general, most people find relief in their signs within a week. But for some women, it can take up to 3 months to find relief. As time passes, the fibroids gradually shrink and eventually the signs also improve.
Research has shown that the embolization procedure is 85% effective at treating fibroids signs such as heavy bleeding, cramps, etc. The procedure does not involve any surgery and hence you can get back to your daily routine in a few days.
What Benefits Do Fibroid Embolization Offer?
The fibroid embolization procedure offers the following benefits over other surgical methods:
- It is minimally invasive
- No large incisions are required
- Recovery is faster than open surgery
- Minimal blood loss during the procedure
Do Fibroids Grow After Embolization Procedure?
Fibroid embolization is considered as a permanent treatment solution for fibroids. It is very rare that fibroids come back even after the fibroid embolization procedure. During embolization, even small fibroids that cannot be seen with imaging tests are also treated. Hence, the chances of redeveloping fibroids are very less.
Want to Get More Information About Fibroid Embolization? Contact Dr Pradyumna Reddy Today
If you have uterine fibroids and it is affecting your quality of life, then undergoing a uterine fibroid embolization procedure can help you. Dr Pradyumna Reddy is one of the best interventional radiologists in Hyderabad. He has performed several fibroid embolization procedures in Hyderabad and gained vast knowledge in it. When you visit him, he carefully explains the procedure along with the possible outcomes and risks. He also conducts required tests to know if you can undergo an embolization procedure. He also conducts follow-up imaging tests after the procedure to know if the fibroids are shrinking or not. To know more about the treatment, schedule an appointment with Dr Pradyumna Reddy today.
