Uterine Fibroids

At Nuffield Vascular and Interventional Radiology, we are dedicated to helping women overcome the challenges of uterine fibroids and live life to the fullest. Fibroids can disrupt daily activities, causing pain and discomfort, but they don’t have to hold you back. With advancements in technology and treatments, Dr Suresh Babu provides personalised care tailored to your unique needs.

Understanding Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that often occur in multiple numbers and can vary in size and location within the uterus.

Common Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids

While some fibroids may not cause noticeable symptoms, others can lead to a range of issues, including:

Heavy menstrual bleeding
Prolonged menstrual periods
Bleeding between menstrual cycles
Painful periods
Pressure on the bladder, resulting in frequent urination
Pelvic discomfort or bloating
Constipation
Symptoms of anaemia, such as fatigue, weakness, light-headedness, shortness of breath during physical activity, and general tiredness

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, understanding the underlying cause can be the first step towards effective treatment and improved well-being.

Diagnosing Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are typically diagnosed through imaging scans of the uterus, which may include:

Ultrasound: The primary diagnostic tool for detecting fibroids.
MRI: Recommended in certain cases, particularly for patients considering treatment options.

Management and Treatment Options

A variety of approaches are available to manage fibroids, depending on the severity and individual needs, including:

Medical Management
Surgical Intervention
High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)
Uterine Artery Embolisation (UAE)

Each option is tailored to address specific symptoms and circumstances, ensuring effective care for every patient.

Uterine Artery Embolisation (UAE)

Uterine artery embolisation (UAE) is a minimally invasive, nonsurgical vascular procedure used to treat fibroids and, in many cases, adenomyosis of the uterus.

Procedure Overview

Duration: Typically completed in 45 minutes to one hour under intravenous sedation.
Technique:
- A 2mm needle is used to access an artery in the groin or wrist.
- A catheter is guided under image guidance into the arteries supplying the fibroids.
- Specialised particles are injected to block blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink over several months.

Recovery and Additional Care

UAE can be performed as a day surgery or may require an overnight hospital stay.
If you suspect fibroids and are looking for a minimally invasive option, uterine artery embolisation may be right for you.

Our clinic also specialises in treating other conditions, such as pelvic congestion syndrome, ensuring comprehensive care tailored to your needs.

Your Health, Our Priority

I’m here to help you regain control of your health. Together, we’ll manage your symptoms and prevent future complications using personalised care and innovative technology. – Dr Suresh Babu