Myoma embolization is a preferred treatment method for women with uterine fibroids. This procedure is performed by blocking the uterine arteries, cutting off the blood supply to fibroid tumors so they shrink over time. Being minimally invasive, it means less pain and a faster recovery for patients. Embolization also carries fewer risks compared to major surgery. Therefore, this method stands out as an ideal solution for many women suffering from fibroids. This treatment can significantly improve women’s quality of life.
| Treatment Method | Myoma Embolization (Uterine Artery Embolization) |
| Indication | Treatment of uterine fibroids (myomas) |
| Indications | Heavy and irregular menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure sensation, frequent urination, enlarged uterus caused by fibroids. |
| Procedure Description | Under angiographic guidance by interventional radiologists, small particles are injected into the vessels feeding the fibroids via the uterine arteries to stop blood flow. |
| Advantages | Minimally invasive, no general anesthesia required, uterus preservation, fast recovery, short hospital stay. |
| Complications | Infection, moderate-to-severe pain for 1 day, early menopause, fibroid regrowth, post-embolization bleeding. |
| Success Rate | High; fibroid shrinkage and symptom relief are usually successful. |
| Recovery Process | Rest for several days post-procedure, avoid heavy physical activity for weeks, regular follow-up visits. |
| Alternative Treatments | Surgical myomectomy, hysterectomy, medical therapy (GnRH analogues, hormone therapy), MR-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS). |
| Preparation and Precautions | Pre-procedure imaging (ultrasound, MRI), local anesthesia during procedure, post-procedure care and monitoring. 1-day admission for pain management. |
| Epidemiology | Fibroids are common in women of reproductive age; more frequent in women over 35 and more prevalent in women of African descent. |
What Is Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
Uterine fibroid embolization is a treatment method in the field of interventional radiology. This procedure aims to reduce the size of uterine fibroids. During the procedure, the physician injects microscopic particles into the uterine arteries. The particles adhere to the vessels, stopping blood flow and causing fibroids to shrink. Because it is minimally invasive, the recovery process is generally shorter.
Types of particles used:
- Polyvinyl alcohol particles
- Acrylic microspheres
- Gelatin-based microspheres
These particles have been proven safe and reliable over years of clinical use.
Why Is Fibroid Embolization Needed?
Uterine fibroid embolization is performed to control various symptoms. It offers an effective solution for health problems caused by fibroids. As fibroids grow, they can cause severe pain and functional issues, making embolization a recommended treatment.
Indications include:
- Anemia from heavy vaginal bleeding
- Persistent abdominal fullness or pain
- Enlarged uterus
- Abdominal distension
- Difficulty conceiving
- Frequent urination
- Constipation and bloating from bowel pressure
- Pain during intercourse
- Back or leg pain from nerve compression
What Are the Risks of Fibroid Embolization?
The procedure carries certain risks. Patients may experience various complications, though infection risk is low. Bruising at the access site may occur. Possible complications include:
- Abnormal bleeding
- Uterine injury
- Infection
- Groin hematoma
- Vessel or adjacent structure injury
- Blood clots
- Infertility or pregnancy complications
- Amenorrhea (loss of menstrual periods)
- Early menopause
- Allergic reactions to contrast or medications
Post-embolization syndrome may cause pelvic pain, cramps, discharge, nausea, mild fever, and fatigue, managed with analgesics and anti-inflammatories.
How Should I Prepare for Fibroid Embolization?
Preparation steps are crucial. Your provider will give detailed instructions and obtain informed consent. Ensure you:
- Undergo a physical exam to confirm suitability.
- Schedule blood tests and other labs.
- Follow fasting and medication guidelines.
Inform your doctor if you are or may be pregnant, or if you have allergies (iodine, contrast, latex, adhesives) or bleeding disorders and anticoagulant use. Local anesthetic and sedatives at the groin will ensure comfort. You may need home support for a few days.
How Is Fibroid Embolization Performed?
The patient removes jewelry and metal items and changes into a gown. An IV line is placed to monitor vital signs.
- Antibiotics may be given at the start.
- The patient lies supine.
- Vital signs are continuously monitored.
Under sterile conditions, the groin is cleaned and a sheath is placed. Through the catheter:
- Contrast is injected.
- Angiography identifies fibroid-feeding arteries.
- Tiny particles are injected to embolize those vessels.
After confirming vessel blockage, the catheter and sheath are removed, ensuring patient safety and rapid recovery.
What Happens After Fibroid Embolization?
The patient goes to recovery for monitoring until stable. They must lie flat for a few hours. Mild abdominal cramps are treated with IV analgesics for 12–24 hours, requiring a one-day stay.
Recovery tips:
- Avoid heavy exercise during recovery.
- Consume fiber-rich foods and plenty of fluids.
Report any fever, redness, swelling, or worsening pain. A follow-up visit at 1–2 weeks evaluates efficacy and plans further care.
What Are the Benefits of Fibroid Embolization?
Embolization treats multiple fibroids of varying sizes in one session, crucial for women desiring fertility. It relieves symptoms, reduces pelvic pain and pressure, and speeds physical recovery compared to surgery. Blood loss is minimal, lowering health risks. Hormonal therapy needs may decrease, reducing side effects.
Fibroid Embolization Costs 2025[/h2]
Costs vary based on procedure complexity, fibroid burden, clinic reputation, physician expertise, and technology used. Prices are not fixed and depend on these factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should patients watch for after fibroid embolization?
Patients should rest adequately and avoid heavy lifting. Maintain genital hygiene to reduce infection risk, eat light, digestible foods, and take prescribed medications regularly.
Which doctor performs fibroid embolization?
Fibroid embolization is performed by interventional radiologists. This procedure falls outside the scope of obstetricians/gynecologists, so patients are referred to interventional radiology specialists trained in this technique.
Are there risks to fibroid embolization?
While generally safe, a small percentage may develop uterine infection, discharge, or temporary menopause. All risks should be carefully weighed before deciding on treatment.
Is there non-surgical fibroid treatment?
Yes. Embolization blocks fibroid vessels in one session. RF ablation and HIFU use heat or focused ultrasound to destroy fibroids. These minimally invasive options are chosen based on fibroid characteristics, with embolization often being the most comprehensive.
What should patients watch for after fibroid embolization?
Patients should rest adequately, avoid heavy lifting, maintain hygiene, eat a healthy diet, take medications as prescribed, avoid vaginal douching and tampons for two weeks, and undergo MRI follow-up.
Additional Resources and Documents
https://ozgurkilickesmez.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/fibroid.pdf
https://ozgurkilickesmez.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Uterine-artery-embolization-versus-hysterectomy-for-uterine-myoma.pdf
Prof. Dr. Özgür Kılıçkesmez graduated from Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty in 1997. He completed his specialization at Istanbul Education and Research Hospital. He received training in interventional radiology and oncology in London. He founded the interventional radiology department at Istanbul Çam and Sakura City Hospital and became a professor in 2020. He holds many international awards and certificates, has over 150 scientific publications, and has been cited more than 1500 times. He is currently working at Medicana Ataköy Hospital.
Vaka Örnekleri