"Is this surgery?"
No. It is not surgery because the physician will not make a large incision or cut into vital organs. The procedure is called "minimally invasive" because although the physician does insert a catheter into your artery, the incision through which the catheter is inserted is the only cut that is made.

"Will I need to undergo general anesthesia?"
No. You will be conscious but sedated during the procedure. Typically, you will receive intravenous sedation that will make you groggy, but you will not be under general anesthesia. Lidocaine or novacaine will be used at the puncture site in the groin.

"How painful is the procedure?"
After the sedation wears off, most women experience moderate to severe pain and cramping during the first 10-15 hours after having the procedure. This pain is successfully controlled with appropriate intravenous narcotics and other pain medication.

"How long will it take to recover?"
After spending the first night in the hospital, most women recover completely within 1-2 weeks. The first menstrual period following the procedure is exceptionally heavy, but subsequent periods should be normal.

"What are the risks and/or side effects?"
Although UFE is considered very safe, any medical procedure has some associated risks. Most women experience moderate to severe pain and cramping during the first several hours after having the procedure, and some experience nausea and fever as well. All of these can be successfully controlled with appropriate intravenous narcotics and other pain medications.

A small number of embolized fibroids and uteri become infected. This can usually be controlled with antibiotics. It has also been reported that there is a less than 1% chance of uterine injury, which may result in you having to undergo a hysterectomy. A small number of patients have reported beginning menopause after the procedure. Dramatic reductions in menstrual flow occur with the first period after UFE.

Be sure to talk with your doctor about possible side effects of UFE, as well as other fibroid options such as hysterectomy and myomectomy.

"How successful is UFE?"
According to the Society for Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiology studies, UFE is performed successfully in 97%-100% of patients. However, 78% to 94% of women who undergo UFE experience significant or total relief of pain and other symptoms. No recurrences have occurred in women who have been followed for up to six

"Can I have children after UFE?"
There is the possibility that you will not be able to have children. It is documented, however, that embolization for other indications has not interfered with fertility. At least 12 women have become pregnant after UFE, with pregnancy outcomes no different than those of the general population.

"Is UFE covered by insurance?"
A number of insurance companies are paying for UFE. Be sure to call your insurance plan if you are considering the procedure.