Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) vs. hysterectomy: A comprehensive comparison
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- Your age
- Your desire to have children
- The size and location of your fibroids
- Your overall health
Here is a more detailed comparison of UFE and hysterectomy:
Procedure-
- UFE: UFE is a minimally invasive procedure that is performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, a thin tube is inserted into the groin and threaded up to the arteries that supply blood to the uterus. Small particles are then injected into the arteries, blocking the blood supply to the fibroids.
- Hysterectomy: Hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the uterus. It can be performed through the abdomen, vagina, or laparoscopically.
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- UFE: Recovery from UFE is typically shorter and less painful than recovery from hysterectomy. Most women are able to return to work and normal activities within a few days or weeks of UFE.
- Hysterectomy: Recovery from hysterectomy can take several weeks or months. Most women are able to return to work and normal activities within 4-6 weeks of a laparoscopic hysterectomy. However, it may take up to 8 weeks to recover from an abdominal hysterectomy.
- UFE: The most common risks and complications of UFE include:
- Pain
- Bleeding
- Allergic reaction to the contrast dye used during the procedure
- Recurrence of fibroids (up to 20%)
- Hysterectomy: The most common risks and complications of hysterectomy include:
- Bleeding
- Injury to nearby organs
- Blood clots
- Pain
- Mood changes
- Early menopause
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- Fertility: UFE is a uterus-sparing procedure, which means that women who undergo UFE may still be able to have children in the future. Hysterectomy is a permanent solution, so it is only recommended for women who are sure that they do not want to have children in the future.
- Sexual function: UFE does not affect sexual function. Hysterectomy can affect sexual function, but the extent of the impact depends on the type of hysterectomy performed.
Review the comparison chart below of our uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) vs. traditional hysterectomy.
Our UFE Procedure |
vs. |
Other Traditional Hysterectomy |
Utilizes local anesthesia and light sedation |
vs. |
Performed under general anethesia |
Full recovery in 1 to 2 weeks |
vs. |
Full recovery in 4 to 8 weeks |
Preserves the uterus |
vs. |
Removes the uterus |
Requires one micro incision and no stitches |
vs. |
Requires more extensive 5-7 inch incision and surgery |
Can return home after the procedure |
vs. |
Requires a few-day hospital stay |
Can be used to treat all sizes and locations of fibroids |
vs. |
Effectively treats all fibroids by removing the uterus |
Substantially lower risk for negative effects on hormone function and other organs |
vs. |
Can affect hormone balance and negatively impact other organs such as the bladder, pelvic floor, bowels or early menopause |
Effective at reducing or eliminating fibroids completely |
vs. |
Fibroids are gone forever, along with the uterus |
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- Cost: UFE is typically less expensive than hysterectomy. However, the cost of either procedure can vary depending on your insurance coverage and the surgeon you choose.
- Your lifestyle: If you are active and have a busy lifestyle, you may prefer UFE because it has a shorter recovery time. However, if you are retired or have a more sedentary lifestyle, you may be more comfortable with the idea of hysterectomy.
- Your support system: If you have a strong support system, you may be more comfortable with the longer recovery time associated with hysterectomy. However, if you do not have a lot of support, you may prefer UFE because it has a shorter recovery time.
90% of women have a positive resolution of fibroid related symptoms after their UFE treatment.
Our vascular board-certified physician will discuss with you whether UFE is a good treatment option for you taking into account your lifestyle, type, size, and position of the fibroids, and any risks they may present.