Uterine Artery Emolisation

Uterine Artery Emolisation

Uterine Artery Embolisation (UAE) is a minimally invasive procedure to treat uterine fibroids (non-cancerous growths in the uterus). Uterine fibroids are among the most common gynecological conditions affecting women in the UK. While some may not experience any symptoms at all, others can experience issues such as abnormal uterine bleeding, urinary incontinence, pelvic pressure, or pain. Fibroids have also been linked to reproductive complications, including infertility and miscarriage. Uterine artery embolisation (UAE) is a treatment option designed to provide a less invasive alternative to hysterectomy or myomectomy, allowing for uterus preservation and a quicker recovery. If you have been diagnosed with Uterine fibroids, your healthcare provider will discuss with you whether an embolisation procedure is a suitable option. The procedure does not require an incision in your abdomen but rather access to blood supply via an artery in your arm or groin.

Why would I need a Uterine Artery Embolisation?

Your healthcare provider may suggest this procedure if you’re experiencing pain, heavy vaginal bleeding, incontinence other related problems due to uterine fibroids. Fibroids can vary from the size of a pea to a small grapefruit. An embolisation may not be suitable for you, depending on the size and location of the fibroid and you might be offered alternative treatment.

What happens during Uterine Artery Embolisation?

The procedure is carried out by an interventional radiologist. A catheter is inserted in an artery either in your groin or your wrist, which is discussed prior to the procedure. A local anesthetic is then injected in the selected area. Using X-ray equipment, the Radiologist guides the catheter into the arteries, through which contrast is injected so they may visualize the arteries supplying the fibroid. When contrast is injected, you may experience hot sensation in the pelvis. Once the Radiologist has access to the uterine arteries, blocking particles are injected into the arteries to stop blood flow to the fibroids. Once the procedure is completed and the catheter is removed, your Radiologist will insert a closure device or press firmly on the area where the catheter was removed to prevent bleeding.

Does Uterine Artery Embolisation hurt?

During the procedure, you will be under sedation to help you feel more relaxed. Although sedation can make you sleepy, you are still aware of your surroundings. You may also be given an anti-inflammatory pain killer to prevent any discomfort during the procedure. In some cases, you can experience cramp-like pelvic pain toward the end of the procedure. If this is the case, you can be given intravenous painkillers to ease the pain.

You may also experience some pain post procedure and you will be given regular pain relief medication to help you.

Are there any risks of complications?

Although uterine artery embolisation is a safe procedure, there are possible complications that you should be aware of. These may include mild bruising in the area where catheter was inserted, infection, injury to healthy tissue, allergic reaction to contrast or sedative medications, infertility, loss of menstrual period or surgery being unsuccessful. All of these risks will be thoroughly explained and discussed with you at the consultation prior to your procedure.