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An estimated 13,000-14,000 UFE procedures are performed annually in the U.S. (as of 2004)Embolization of the uterine arteries is not new. It has been used successfully by interventional radiologists for more than 20 years to treat heavy bleeding after childbirth.Embolization has been used to treat tumors since 1966. Embolization to treat uterine fibroids has been performed since 1995 and the embolic particles are approved by the FDA specifically to treat uterine fibroid tumors, based on comparative trials showing similar efficacy with less serious complications compared to hysterectomy and myomectomy (the surgical removal of fibroids).Embolization of fibroids was first used as an adjunct to help decrease blood loss during myomectomy. To the surprise of the initial users of this method, many patients had spontaneous resolution of their symptoms after only the embolization and no longer needed the surgery.

The procedure is effective for multiple fibroids and large fibroids.

Many women wonder about the safety of leaving particles in the body. The embolic particles most commonly used in UFE have been available with FDA approval for use in people for more than 20 years. During that time, they have been used in thousands of patients without long-term complications.

VIV also has access to bioresorbable beads that could be used if the patient desires

UFE is a very safe method and, like other minimally invasive procedures has significant advantages over conventional open surgery. The recovery is much shorter than surgery, including robotic techniques

There have been numerous reports of pregnancies following uterine fibroid embolization, however, prospective studies are needed to determine the effects of UFE on the ability of a woman to have children. One study comparing the fertility of women who had UFE with those who had myomectomy showed similar numbers of successful pregnancies.

Depends on the insurance. Please call us and we can let you know.

On average recovery time, 7 days compared with weeks from surgery.

Peripheral Arterial Disease is a disorder that affects the arteries outside of the heart and brain. According to the American Heart Association, controllable risk factors for PAD include cigarette smoking, obesity, diabetes mellitus, physical inactivity, high blood cholesterol, and high blood pressure.

At VIV, we generally access the radial artery (in the wrist) so that the procedure and recovery are more comfortable. This approach allows the patient to drive sooner and have less physical restrictions after the procedure than the traditional leg artery (femoral) approach.

Examine your access daily to ensure there is a thrill and keep the site clean. Wash skin daily with soap and water. Avoid sleeping on your access arm, carrying heavy objects and checking blood pressure on your access arm.

Keep the site clean and dry. Dressing changes will be done at the dialysis center. Plan on transitioning to a fistula or a graft as soon as possible.

PAE, which can be performed under light anesthesia, involves a treatment called embolization, which entails temporarily blocking blood flow to the arteries that supply the prostate.