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Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a treatment for
women suffering from uterine fibroids. It is a procedure
that limits the blood flow to the tumor, causing it to
die. UFE is performed without the use of general anesthesia
by a physician specially trained as an interventional
radiologist. This procedure requires the insertion of
a catheter into the uterine arteries. Small particles
are deposited at the opening to the fibroid tumors to
halt the blood supply, thereby causing the tumor to die.
As the uterine fibroid dies it begins to shrink. This
shrinkage relieves the pressure on the back, bladder,
bowel or any other affected organ. For many women this
is all that is necessary to alleviate the suffering,
particularly if a woman is beginning menopause. The reduction
in estrogen adds to the success of the procedure.
Beverly Tower Wilshire Advanced Imaging Center offers
the latest treatment option for painful uterine fibroids.
The MR guided Focused Ultrasound technology is the least
invasive procedure approved by the FDA for fibroid treatment.
There is no incision, not even for a catheter into the
artery. All you do is lie on a patient table face down
while the MRI pinpoints the precise location for the
ultrasound pulsation to ablate the tumors.
Within a couple of days, you can usually return to your
normal level of activity. Even though insurance does
not pay for this FDA approved procedure you can still
have it done. You can pay cash for the treatment and
we will do everything possible to try and have your insurance
company reimburse you. Give our Study
Coordinator a call at 310-689-3101 to see if you are
eligible for participation.
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