What is Uterine artery embolization (UAE)?

Uterine artery embolization is a minimally invasive procedure/ surgery performed by Interventional Radiologist wherein tiny particles are super selectively injected through the arteries supplying the uterus resulting in cut off of the blood supply.

Who are the candidates eligible for Uterine artery embolization (UAE)?

Uterine fibroids (intramural, submucosal, and subserosal) causing
Menorrhagia
Pelvic pain, pressure and fullness
Mass effect symptoms such as urinary frequency, bladder outlet obstruction and hydronephrosis due to ureteric
compression
Fibroids with otherwise undiagnosed infertility
Preoperative technique to decrease the size of large fibroids
Dysfunctional uterine bleeding
Adenomyosis
Post-partum haemorrhage
Other less common indications include
- Uterine artery pseudoaneurysm(s)
- Uterine AVM: trauma, post curettage
- Post trauma uterine bleeding

How is UAE done?

Vascular access (tiny hole ~2-3mm) is made through an artery in the thigh (femoral artery)/ wrist (radial artery).
Catheter is super selectively passed into the uterine arteries, which supply blood to the uterus.
Small plastic or gelatin particles are put into the arteries through the catheter.
These particles block the blood supply to the fibroids.

Procedure duration and post procedure care?

Procedure usually takes about 90-120minutes.
2-3 days hospital stay may be required.
Patients can experience crampy abdominal pain for 2-3 days which is usually well managed by medicines.

What are the advantages of UAE?

Minimally invasive uterus preserving surgery
No cuts/ scars/sutures.
Shorter hospital stay (2-3 days)
Almost nil requirement for blood transfusion
Reduces pain, pressure, and bleeding from fibroids/adenomyosis.
Allows you to go back to work and other activities sooner (immediately after discharge)
Patients can conceive after UAE