Uterine Artery Embolization
Common Questions
- How often does UAE work?
Studies to date have shown UAE to be extremely effective in treating
symptomatic fibroids. Overall, 85% of patients worldwide report
significant improvements in their symptoms following UAE. 82-94% of women
are satisfied with the procedure and would choose it again. The uterus and
dominant fibroid most often shrink by at least half. Regrowth of fibroids,
which can occur following myomectomy, has not been reported following UAE.
- How will UAE affect my fertility?
UAE currently is not recommended for patients desiring future
pregnancy. Although patients have conceived and delivered normal babies
following UAE, not enough data has been collected to conclude that UAE is
safe for women desiring future pregnancy. Less than 1% of women undergoing
UAE have gone into menopause following the procedure. These women were
close to menopause at the time of UAE, so it is uncertain as to whether
UAE contributed to menopause. This area is under investigation and more
information will be available in the near future.
- Do insurance companies pay for UAE?
The short answer is yes, but you must plan ahead. Most elective
(non-emergent) procedures require approval by an insurance company prior
to being performed. UAE is no different. Most insurance companies are
paying for UAE procedures that are approved before the procedure is
performed. It is wise to talk to your doctor about this subject prior to
any procedure.
- How can I find out more about UAE?
Information is available from the Department of Vascular and
Interventional Radiology at both Rhode Island Hospital (401-444-5194) and
Miriam Hospital (401-793-7425). Information is also available on the
Internet. The Society of Vascular and Interventional Radiology Web site at
www.scvir.org is an excellent resource and has links to other useful
sites.
More about uterine artery embolization
Information
in this section is provided by Rhode
Island Hospital's department of radiology, which offers a complete
range of diagnostic and interventional procedures for women, including
uterine artery embolization, a leading treatment for fibroid tumors. Back
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