Center for Image-Guided Medicine
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a nonsurgical alternative to hysterectomy in the treatment of uterine fibroids. If you are suffering with symptoms from uterine fibroids, you may be a candidate for UFE. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, and in most cases, you will be back to your daily routine within four to five days.
UFE is performed by Interventional Radiologists (IR). These physicians are specifically trained in image-guided procedures, meaning that you do not need to undergo invasive surgery. An IR uses x-ray imaging to see the fibroids. Only a tiny nick in the skin (less than the width of one's pinky finger) is all that is necessary to gain access to the fibroids, using image-guided catheters which are similar in size to a piece of spaghetti.
Read about one woman's personal experience with uterine fibroids by clicking here.
Focused Ultrasound
What is MRI-guided Focused Ultrasound (MRg-FUS)?
MRg-FUS is only available at a small number of medical facilities in the United States. It combines the imaging capability of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to target tumors (ex. fibroids) inside the body with a special ultrasound unit capable of delivering a beam of focused ultrasound energy. This energy is used to destroy the tumor while completely sparing the adjacent normal tissue.
During the treatment session, MRI images allow the treating physician to "see" inside the body and monitor the treated tumor in a completely noninvasive manner.
How is the procedure done for uterine fibroids?
Immediately prior to the procedure, the woman has a catheter inserted in an arm vein and a bladder catheter placed. She lies prone (i.e. on her stomach) for the duration of the procedure. The procedure can take up to 3-4 hours to complete. Intravenous sedation and pain medication are given to the patient to provide comfort and relaxation. There is a nurse with the patient in the scanner, along with the treating physician outside of the scanner throughout the entire procedure.
Individual pulses of focused ultrasound energy are deposited to the fibroid. These last for 20 seconds each and are given until the fibroid is completely treated. Afterwards, MR images are given until the fibroid is completely treated. Afterwards, MR images are obtained to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment session.
What are the benefits of MRg-FUS for the treatment of fibroids?
MRg-FUS is a noninvasive alternative to treat fibroids. After the treatment session, patients will have a brief recovery period and then are discharged home. They should be able to resume their normal routine the next day.
Some patients will be treated for infertility due to their fibroids. These patients will be spared more invasive surgery. Other patients will be treated for symptoms due to their fibroids, most commonly heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, or increased urinary frequency. These patients may prefer the noninvasive nature of MRg-FUS over other options such as Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) or surgical options such as myomectomy or hysterectomy.
What are the risks of MRg-FUS?
The incidence of complications during MRg-FUS is very low. The risks include skin burns, back or leg pain, nerve injury, vaginal discharge, and urinary tract infection. There is also a possibility that the treatment is unsuccessful and would require an alternative treatment. Finally, there is a chance that at a later time, more fibroids develop or grow requiring treatment.
How do I know if I am a candidate for MRg-FUS?
We evaluate each patient individually and discuss with you all of the available treatment options at the time of your initial office consultation. Call 770-801-4634.
John Lipman, MD, FSIR serves as the director of The Center for Image-Guided Procedures. His practice, Atlanta Interventional Institute is located on the campus of Emory-Adventist Hospital. Dr. Lipman has the largest experience in UFE in the Southeast, as well as one of the largest in the world.
In addition to UFE, the Center offers the following:
Gynecologic
Uterine Artery Embolization and Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Endovenous Laser/Radiofrequency Ablation for Varicose Veins
Fallopian Tubal Occlusion for Permanent Birth Control
Fallopian Tubal Recanalization for Infertility
Musculoskeletal
Vertebral Compression Fractures: Treatment of spinal compression fractures through
Vertebroplasty
Kyphoplasty
Optimesh
Oncologic
Image-guided biopsies
Thoracentesis
Paracentesis
Chest ports
Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy
Vascular
Balloon Angioplasty
Stent Placement for Peripheral Vascular Disease/Renovascular Hypertension
IVC filters: Permanent or Retrievable
Diagnostic Peripheral, Mesenteric or Cerebral Angiography
To reach The Center for Image-Guided Medicine call 770-801-4634.