Uterine artery embolization offers an alternative to hysterectomy

   by Beth Ott

    Having a hysterectomy is a daunting decision for many women suffering with fibroids. It's no longer the only solution, though.  

   Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that can cause heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure and other pains for many women. They can be hereditary.

   While many women have undergone hysterectomies to rid them of fibroids, today, a new procedure is available to help women avoid such a major surgery.

   Uterine artery embolization is the injection of particles into the arteries supplying the uterus to cut off blood flow to fibroids, causing them to shrink. Advantages over surgery include no incision and a shorter recovery time.

   Dr. David Wood, an interventional radiologist at Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center in Phoenix, said most patients with uterine fibroids are candidates for this treatment, particularly those who desire uterine preservation and wish to avoid surgery and a long recovery.

   "UAE is a non-surgical treatment offering a shorter recovery time and fewer complications compared with hysterectomy. The uterus remains intact, and because the procedure is done using only a mild sedative, the risks of general anesthesia are avoided," Dr. Wood said.

   A hysterectomy comes with a long recovery period and shifts in a woman's hormones. It eliminates the possibility of bearing children in the future. UAE offers patients to return to normal activities much sooner and doesn't completely eliminate the possibility of pregnancy. It is advised that a patient who hopes to preserve fertility waits at least one year to try to conceive. 

   "Most patients return to work and normal activity within 10 days after the procedure. Because UAE is a minimally invasive alternative to surgery, studies have shown there is a lower risk of complications compared with hysterectomy," Dr. Wood said.

   The procedure is done at a few select Banner hospitals in the Phoenix metro area where the full range of interventional radiology services are offered. Patients should ensure that the facility they choose performs a large volume of these specialized treatments.

Click "Subscribe" to receive e-mail notices when Beth Ott publishes a health article. Feel free to leave a comment suggesting any topics you'd like to read about.