Uterine Fibroid Embolization in Flower Mound, TX
Specialized Treatment for Uterine Fibroids
When it comes to effectively treating uterine fibroids, there can be a lot of options to consider. In previous years, a hysterectomy was the standard surgery used to treat fibroids, since removing the uterus entirely was the only way to guarantee relief from symptoms. Thankfully, recent advancements in medical technology have allowed for more minimally invasive methods to be made available, including uterine fibroid embolization, or UFE. Uterine fibroid embolization may also be referred to as uterine artery embolization (UAE).
Non-Surgical Uterine Fibroid Treatment
Dr. Robert Handley is highly skilled in performing intravenous procedures such as UFE. Rather than make a surgical incision to the uterus, or even anywhere in the pelvis, our specialists are able to treat the patient’s fibroid(s) by threading a thin tube through a small cut in the groin or wrist. The tube, also called a catheter, is carefully maneuvered through the arteries until it reaches the target area.
Once in place, an embolic fluid is injected through the catheter and into the targeted arteries. This fluid then works to block blood flow within the artery, which effectively cuts off the blood supply to the uterine fibroid being treated. This may be applied to as many fibroids as needed, and the blood then recirculates through other arteries in the pelvis.
Benefits of Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Uterine fibroid embolization is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning that women treated for fibroids at North Texas Fibroids may return home following their procedure. Over the next several weeks the patient’s fibroids should gradually reduce in size as they continue to not receive the blood necessary for further development and growth.
Compared to more traditional approaches to treating fibroids, such as a hysterectomy, UFE is much less invasive. Avoidance of making a large incision and putting a patient fully under anesthesia during their treatment lowers both the risk of potential complications and the amount of recommended recovery time for the patient. A majority of patients who receive uterine fibroid treatment using UFE are able to return to regular daily activities in one to two days.
Fibroid Specialist Dr. Robert Handley
Dr. Handley specializes in UFE at North Texas Fibroids, conveniently located in Flower Mound, TX. Dr. Handley is a certified and experienced Interventional Radiologist.
During the procedure, a catheter is guided to the fibroid tumor and embolic material is injected to block the blood flow leading to the tumor. This results in the fibroid shrinking and most patients notice their symptoms improve within a few weeks.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Handley at our office in Flower Mound by calling (972) 724-2000 or by filling out the appointment request form below.
