Worried that UFE will harm your uterus? Worry no more! In this section we explain how UFE leaves your uterus virtually untouched.
What happens to the uterus after the procedure? Does embolization cause any injury to the uterus?
The uterus tolerates Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) very well. In most research studies conducted, analysis of the uteri showed no UFE-related injury to the normal uterine muscle or the lining of the uterine cavity. Only the fibroids were affected. Proving that injury to the normal uterus is extremely rare.
There are two main ideas to explain these findings. First, the arterial branches that go to normal uterine tissues are tiny, while the arteries that go to the fibroid are very large. Injected polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) particles are too big to enter vessels leading to the normal uterus, so they flow right past these vessels and go directly to where the blood flow and vessel diameter are greatest. The fibroids, which feed off of this blood flow, absorb the blood-borne PVA. Further embolizing the blood flow to the uterus and eventually shrinking the tissue.
Second, the uterus is able to “recruit” blood supply from adjacent organs, primarily the cervix, vagina, and pelvic floor. By using this “secondary source” as a means to receive blood supply, the uterus still maintains the blood necessary to remain healthy, further ensuring that no damage can be done.
To learn more about fibroids and the embolization procedure, please feel free to contact the Fibroid Treatment Collective at 866-362-6463 or request a free phone consultation. We are always more than happy to provide you with useful resources and help you make positive choices for your health!
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