Uterine Fibroids Health Center

Uterine Fibroids

Surgical Treatment Options continued...

Uterine artery embolization (UAE): A procedure that cuts off blood flow to a uterine fibroid, causing it to shrink. UAE is not a surgical procedure. It is a minimally invasive procedure during which a thin tube -- catheter -- is inserted into an artery in the groin and guided using X-ray cameras to arteries that feed the uterus. Once it's there, the doctor injects very small particles through the tube. The particles clog the blood vessels that feed the fibroid tumor. That causes them to shrink over time and brings about an improvement in the woman's symptoms.

Because it is a minimally invasive procedure, some women go home the same day. Most often, an overnight stay in the hospital is required. The procedure can cause cramping and pelvic pain that may last a few days. But typically, women can return to work and their normal activities after about one week. Not all women are candidates for this procedure.  Talk to your doctor about your best options.