Uterine Fibroid Embolization vs Myomectomy
UFE vs Myomectomy: Which Option is Best for You?
Symptomatic uterine fibroids may lead to abnormal or heavy bleeding, frequent urination, or severe menstrual cramps. If you have received a diagnosis of uterine fibroids, it is crucial to explore suitable treatment options for symptom relief. Various treatments are available, including myomectomy, which is a more invasive surgical procedure targeting specific fibroids. However, it is important to note that myomectomy carries a higher likelihood of recurrence compared to uterine fibroid embolization.
Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) stands as an alternative treatment for fibroids. This minimally invasive, image-guided procedure effectively diminishes both the size and symptoms of fibroids. UFE is often favoured over myomectomy due to its less invasive nature, addressing all fibroids regardless of quantity and size. With lower complication risks, shorter recovery periods, and no need for a hospital stay, UFE is a preferred option. Our fibroid specialists at the fibroid clinic bring decades of experience to UFE procedures, employing state-of-the-art technology and minimally invasive approaches. Explore UFE vs. myomectomy to make an informed decision on the most suitable treatment for you.
UFE is an outpatient procedure that is minimally invasive. It cuts off the bloody supply to the fibroids, thus halting bleeding and inducing shrinkage. In contrast to myomectomy, which poses a higher risk of complications post-surgery, UFE reports fewer risks. Additional advantages of UFE comprise:
- Less invasive compared to surgery
- Utilizes light or moderate sedation
- No hospital stays (performed as an outpatient procedure)
- Reduced risk of complications
- No need for stitches, avoiding scarring
- Full recovery within 10 days
- Lower occurrence of fibroid regrowth
Myomectomy
Myomectomy contrasts with the UFE procedure in various aspects. Myomectomy, being a major surgery, presents greater complications such as significant blood loss, blood clot formation, infection, and potential issues with pregnancy post-procedure. Additional distinctions include:
- Major surgical intervention
- Involves general anaesthesia
- Demands hospitalization
- Heightened risk of complications
- Involves stitches and results in scarring
- Complete recovery within 2-6 weeks
- Increased likelihood of fibroid regrowth
Do You Experience Symptoms of Fibroids?
UFE vs Myomectomy Procedure
Myomectomy involves the surgical removal of fibroids while retaining the uterus. This procedure may utilize a single incision or, in certain instances, multiple incisions in the vagina, cervix, or lower abdomen. There are three variations of myomectomy procedures: abdominal, laparoscopic, or hysteroscopic surgery. The choice of surgery is determined by factors such as the size, location, and number of fibroids. Typically, a myomectomy is anticipated to last between 2 to 3 hours.
In contrast, uterine fibroid embolization involves the insertion of a slender catheter through the upper thigh into the femoral artery. Subsequently, minute gel particles are injected into the blood vessels that provide blood to the fibroids. These particles obstruct the blood supply to the fibroid, leading to its reduction in size. UFE is conducted as a procedure completed on the same day and typically lasts approximately one hour.
UFE vs Myomectomy Recovery Time
The recuperation period for a myomectomy can vary among individuals, contingent on the type of surgery chosen to address their fibroids. An abdominal myomectomy entails an overnight hospital stay and approximately 4-6 weeks of recovery time before normal activities can be resumed. For a laparoscopic myomectomy, the recovery period is 2-4 weeks, and a hysteroscopic myomectomy involves a 1–2-week recovery. Given that UFE is generally less invasive than a myomectomy, the majority of patients achieve full recovery within 10 days and can return to work and resume their daily activities.
Which Fibroid Treatment Is Right For You?
While myomectomy is a successful method for eliminating fibroids, there is a risk of fibroid regrowth, leading to the recurrence of symptoms. Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) also carries a possibility of regrowth, albeit at lower rates. Additionally, myomectomy may result in post-procedural health complications, including blood clots, infection, scarring, and potential fertility issues arising from infections or scarring.
At the fibroid clinic, we advocate for uterine fibroid embolization as the preferred choice for women seeking fibroid treatment. The procedure preserves the uterus, avoids scarring, and entails a minimal recovery period due to its minimally invasive nature. UFE boasts a success rate of approximately 85%, leading to significant improvement in symptoms for most women. The majority of women experience a smooth recovery from UFE, with the ability to resume their regular activities within a week to 10 days. Approximately 85-90% of women who undergo UFE find relief from their symptoms, accompanied by measurable shrinkage of their fibroids. Following the procedure, you will have a follow-up appointment with your doctor, which may include additional ultrasound or MRI scans to monitor the healing progress.
Why Choose The Fibroid Clinic For UFE?
The physicians at the fibroid clinic are recognized as leading providers of endovascular procedures, including UFE, on a national level. The top-notch fibroid treatment centres are equipped with individual patient rooms, advanced operating rooms, and dedicated recovery areas, ensuring a comprehensive care experience from the beginning to the end. When contemplating UFE, fibroid clinic is your ideal choice. Our dedicated team is devoted to assisting you in alleviating fibroid-related pain and other distressing symptoms, enabling you to lead a more comfortable life.