Last updated 4 days ago
Uterine fibroid embolization, commonly called UFE, is a minimally invasive procedure designed to alleviate the bleeding, pain, and other symptoms associated with uterine fibroids. This procedure is an excellent treatment option for women who are suffering with uterine fibroids. It not only allows these women to completely avoid surgery (and its inherent risks, complications, and extended recovery) but also allows them to keep their uterus. Women who undergo hysterectomy can be significantly affected psychologically and sexually. They are at significantly increased risk for osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease (exs. heart attack, stroke) compared to those women who keep their uterus. Below are some of the many frequently asked questions regarding the UFE procedure:
- How does the procedure alleviate the symptoms of uterine fibroids?
The uterine blood supply can be thought of as a tree. The trunk is the main uterine artery and it branches in the uterus with smaller and smaller branches until it gets out to the leaves which are the fibroids. We know the size of these tiny branches and flow-direct tiny inert particles into the fibroid vessels which are then blocked completely. Without a blood supply the fibroids cannot survive. They will soften and shrink over time, and as this process occurs, the woman’s symptoms improve dramatically or disappear.
- What equipment is used during the UFE procedure?
To help the physician place the catheter and guide it to its destination, a X-ray monitoring system called fluoroscopy is used. To block the blood flow leading into the fibroid, tiny inert particles called embolic agents are injected into the uterine arteries. These particles are FDA-approved for use in the treatment of uterine fibroids.
- Are there any other uses for this procedure?
UFE is a specialized version of uterine artery embolization, a minimally invasive procedure that has been utilized for years to effectively reverse other causes of severe pelvic bleeding (exs. adenomyosis, trauma, or post-partum hemorrhage).
According to the American College of Radiology, over 90 percent of women suffering from uterine fibroids experience relief after the UFE procedure. If you have any remaining questions regarding this advanced medical procedure, contact the experts at the Center for Image Guided Medicine by calling (678) 391-4644.
Last updated 10 days ago
Join us on Saturday, May 19 for a seminar with Dr. john Lipman on how you can become free from fibroids without surgery! RSVP today by calling 706.324.2055.
- Breakfast & registration - 10:00AM
- Presentation - 10:30AM
- Fourth Street Baptist Church
Call today for more information and to reserve your spot. You can also visit www.atlantafibroidclinic.com.
Last updated 21 days ago
Uterine fibroids are noncancerous tumors that arise from the muscular uterine wall. These growths are extremely common—according to the United States Department of Health & Human Services, up to 80 percent of women will develop uterine fibroids by the time they reach the age of 50. Although not all women with uterine fibroids experience symptoms, many others suffer from pain, bleeding, and frequent urination. If you experience the symptoms of uterine fibroids, read on to learn four signs that you may need to seek expert treatment:
1.You are chronically fatigued: For many women, uterine fibroids can result in chronic fatigue, weakness, and anemia. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of anemia, such as migraine-like headaches, lightheadedness, heart palpitations, or hair loss, consider seeking immediate treatment for your fibroids.
2.You experience heavy menstrual bleeding: The most common symptom of uterine fibroids is heavy menstrual bleeding. Severe symptoms include episodes of blood flooding, gushing when standing up, or passing large clots. Periods may also be more painful than normal.
3.You suffer from pelvic pain: Women with uterine fibroids can experience many painful symptoms as a result of their condition. In addition to fullness in the lower abdominal area, painful intercourse, lower back pain, and pelvic pain which is worse during the menstrual are all common symptoms of severe fibroids.
4.You urinate more frequently than normal: If the uterine fibroids grow near the bladder, they can act like a paperweight and not allow the bladder to fill normally. This results in women suffering with frequent urination and waking up in the middle of the night to urinate.
At the Center for Image Guided Medicine, our healthcare team offers the highest quality care to the patients. Our Center has among the highest patient satisfaction scores in the United States. Our Medical Director, Dr. John Lipman is a nationally recognized uterine fibroid expert. If you would like to learn more about the services we offer, contact our staff at (678) 391-4644.
Last updated 28 days ago
Studies show that approximately one out of every four women in the United States suffers from uterine fibroids—non-cancerous tumors within the uterus that are comprised of smooth muscle and fibrous tissue. Also known as leiomyomas or myomas, fibroids can cause a number of symptoms and may even lead to fertility problems. Fortunately, a fibroid expert can help diagnose your symptoms and determine which treatment is right for you. It is important to find a physician who is licensed, board-certified, and has a great deal of experience with non-surgical and surgical fibroid treatment methods.
It is important to understand the signs and symptoms of fibroids to determine when to seek treatment. While the signs will vary from patient to patient, the most common symptoms associated with fibroids include:
· Heavy monthly periods
· Frequent urination
· Pelvic pain or increased abdominal pressure which is worse just before and/or during her menses.
Women experiencing any of these symptoms should consult with their physician to rule out the presence of fibroids. Those who are at greater risk for uterine fibroids includes women with a family history of fibroids, women who are obese or overweight, women between the ages of 30 and 50, and women of African-American descent.
Here at the Center for Image Guided Medicine, our fibroid experts are some of the most experienced fibroid physicians in the United States. We are devoted to providing compassionate, personalized care that is tailored to the needs of each individual patient. We offer a number of state-of-the-art non-surgical fibroid treatments. Learn more about your treatment options by contacting us at (678) 391-4644.
