Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE) Treatment

Vaginal bleeding affects females, it affects their uterus. The uterus is a hollow and pear-shaped organ, which is vital for pregnancy as well as the menstrual cycle. It is positioned in the lower belly and plays a most important role in female reproduction. When a female body experience hormone changes or any miscarriage happens in this muscular organ, then it leads to vaginal bleeding in females. It can be normal or abnormal and becomes an issue in the vaginal area. This problem could occur due to cancerous tumors, uterine fibroids, etc. If it is left untreated, then the condition can badly affect a woman’s pregnancy or childbirth. Uterine artery embolization is a minimally invasive surgery, and it’s one of the best alternatives to hysterectomy.

It does not require surgery for fibroid treatment. It is suggested by the doctors for the stoppage of vaginal bleeding in patients. The condition also known as uterine fibroid embolization.

Why Uterine Artery Embolization is Important?

A healthcare professional recommends this surgery for the treatment of certain problems associated with vaginal bleeding. These are as follows:

• Painful intercourse
• Pelvic pressure
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Frequent urination
• Constipation
• Trauma
• Excessive bleeding after childbirth

Patients with pregnancy, allergic reaction, uterine fibroids without symptoms, etc, are not suggested for this procedure. They must consult with their doctor for the management of these health issues.

Advantages of Uterine Artery Embolization

The benefits of this surgical procedure are as follows:

• There is no need for general anesthesia for this surgical procedure. 
• It lowers the vaginal bleeding symptoms, which include pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, etc. 
• This approach does not require large stitches and provide faster recovery in patients.
• It is less invasive and a better option as compared to hysterectomy or myomectomy.   
• This method targets the uterine fibroids only, which preserves the uterus in women for their future pregnancy. 

Before the UAE (Uterine Artery Embolization) Procedure

The following things can be expected before embolization surgery are as follows:

• Eating or drinking can cause a blockage of blood flow in the uterus. Therefore, it is essential for patients to avoid it for 6 to 8 hours before embolization. 
• Some blood-thinning medications must be avoided, otherwise, they lead to bleeding, which creates an issue during surgery. You can consult with your doctor when to stop taking these medicines.
• A medical history, medication, allergies, and menstrual cycle will be reviewed by a provider before surgical procedure. Women can also discuss pregnancy plans with them. 
• Certain diagnostic tests such as magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound or hysteroscopy for the identification of vaginal bleeding in the uterus. 
• A surgeon can use biopsy to check the cancer cells in this muscular organ. 

During Procedure

This surgery will be performed in the following steps:

• An interventional radiologist uses medical imaging guidance to perform the surgery.
• A patient will lie on the table, and their blood pressure and heart rate will be monitored through different machines. 
• The surgeon will apply a pain blocker on the skin for numbing around the groin area. 
• An IV injection is applied to your skin for fluids and sedative medication, which relaxes the patients and provides a better sleep on their table. 
• A tiny puncture is made in the femoral artery, and a surgeon will place a thin needle inside it. 
• After that, they use X-rays and contrast dyes for catheter guidance in their uterine arteries. The dyes help to find the blockage of arteries in the uterus. 
• Once a catheter gets placed, it will deliver the particles that block the flow of blood into the uterus. They are known as embolic agents. 
• After surgery completion, the surgeon removes your catheter and applies a bandage at the puncture location to control bleeding in the uterus. 

After Procedure 

The following things can be expected after surgical procedure are as follows:

• The patients may experience moderate to severe pelvic cramps for the first 24 hours. The pain medications and antibiotics may be prescribed by their healthcare provider after surgery. 
• A watery or mucus-like discharge can be expected for several weeks.
• The opioid narcotics may lead to constipation if it is given during surgical procedure. 
• The menstrual periods may be paused for several cycles. When it resumes, the blood quantity will be lower than normal. 
• A fibrous tissue may be passed through the vagina for fibroids treatment. The symptoms start disappearing in about two or three weeks, and a complete relief may be provided to most people after six months. 
• The patients may feel tired for one or two weeks. They may also experience vomiting and a low-grade fever after surgical procedure. 

Risks and Complications of UAE Treatment

It is safe and effective surgery, but it leads to certain risks. These include the following:

• Loss in menstrual period
• Injury in healthy tissue
• Unsuccessful surgery
• Infection due to damage in other blood vessels from a catheter
• Infertility
• Allergic reactions

How to Prevent Complications?

A patient must follow certain instructions as recommended by the healthcare provider. These include the following:

• An individual must avoid strenuous activities and lifting heavy objects for a few days. He or she should not take a bath with hot water after a surgical procedure.
• The tampons, douches, and sexual activities must be stopped for a period of time. A person should not go to work for at least one week as suggested by their provider. 
• Fiber and plenty of fluids are important for your diet. 
• Driving a car or any other vehicle will be restricted or prohibited after going home.