Benefits of Minimally Invasive UFE for Uterine Fibroids – What Hyderabad Patients Need To Know

Uterine fibroids are abnormal growths of muscle and connective tissue that develop in or on the walls of the uterus. Also known as leiomyomas or myomas, they are almost always benign (non-cancerous), and the likelihood of them becoming cancerous is extremely rare. Fibroids can range in size—from as small as a peanut to as large as a watermelon—and a woman may have single or multiple fibroids of varying sizes in different uterine locations.

In India, the prevalence of uterine fibroids varies across studies, with reports indicating rates between 20% and 40% among women of reproductive age, and some research suggesting that up to 77% of women may develop fibroids during their childbearing years. Many women remain asymptomatic, but when symptoms occur, they can include:

• Heavy or painful menstrual bleeding and cramps
• Abnormal or intermenstrual bleeding
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Frequent urination
• Constipation or lower back pain
• Pain during intercourse
• Complications during pregnancy

Traditionally, fibroids have been treated through hysterectomy (complete removal of the uterus) or myomectomy (surgical removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus). However, both are invasive procedures with limitations including long recovery times, surgical risks, and effects on fertility or physical well-being.

Today, a newer alternative—Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)—offers women a minimally invasive, uterus-preserving option. In this procedure, an interventional radiologist injects tiny particles into the arteries supplying the fibroids, cutting off their blood flow and causing them to shrink naturally. UFE avoids large incisions, enables faster recovery, and is especially relevant for women in Hyderabad seeking modern, effective fibroid care without major surgery.

What patients need to know about Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure designed to treat fibroids without surgery. Unlike traditional options such as hysterectomy or myomectomy, which involve removing the uterus or surgically excising fibroids, UFE targets the root cause of fibroid growth, which is their blood supply.

During the procedure, an interventional radiologist inserts a thin catheter through a small puncture in the groin or wrist. Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, the catheter is carefully navigated to the uterine arteries that feed the fibroids. Tiny particles called embolic agents are then released to block these arteries, cutting off the fibroids’ oxygen and nutrient supply.

As a result, the fibroids gradually shrink, symptoms improve, and normal uterine function is preserved. The entire procedure usually takes about 45 to 90 minutes, and most patients can return home the same day or within 24 hours.

At RIVEA Vascular Institute, Hyderabad, this procedure is performed using advanced endovascular imaging systems that ensure precision, safety, and faster recovery. This blend of medical expertise and modern technology makes UFE a powerful alternative for women seeking effective, non-surgical fibroid relief.

Why minimally invasive matters

For decades, fibroid treatment meant major surgery, often with large incisions, long hospital stays, and weeks of downtime. Minimally invasive procedures like UFE are changing that landscape.

With just a pinhole entry point, there’s no visible scarring, minimal blood loss, and reduced infection risk. Patients typically recover within a week and resume normal activity soon after.

In Hyderabad, where many women balance demanding personal and professional lives, these advantages make UFE an attractive option. It allows patients to manage fibroid symptoms effectively without the burden of a prolonged recovery or disruption to daily routines.

Key benefits of UFE for fibroid patients

UFE offers a combination of medical efficacy and patient comfort that few other fibroid treatments can match. Here are some of its most important benefits:

• Uterus preservation:
  Unlike hysterectomy, which removes the uterus entirely, Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) allows women to preserve their uterus and its natural function. Retaining the uterus helps maintain normal hormonal balance, pelvic support, and body physiology, which can influence overall well-being beyond reproduction.
• Shorter recovery and less downtime:
  UFE is typically performed as a day-care or short-stay procedure. Most women can return to light activity within 5–7 days, compared to 4–6 weeks for surgical recovery. This quick turnaround is especially beneficial for working women and caregivers who can’t afford extended time away from their responsibilities.
• Effective symptom relief:
  Clinical studies show that 80–90% of women experience substantial relief from heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure symptoms after UFE. As fibroids shrink over the following weeks and months, the uterus returns to a more normal size, improving comfort and quality of life.
• Minimal scarring:
  Since UFE involves only a tiny needle puncture, there’s no surgical incision or external scar. This makes it a preferred choice for patients who want effective treatment without any visible signs of surgery.
• Reduced risk of complications and short hospital stay:
  The procedure is performed under local anesthesia with mild sedation, eliminating the risks associated with general anesthesia. Hospital stay is minimal. Most patients go home the same day or after one night. Post-procedure discomfort is manageable with medications, and complications are rare when performed by an experienced interventional radiologist.
• Quick return to daily life:
  Because the recovery is rapid, women can resume normal household, social, or professional activities within a week. This fast recovery contributes significantly to emotional well-being and confidence, making UFE a life-changing option for many.

UFE vs. traditional surgical treatments

To better understand UFE’s advantages, it helps to compare it with traditional surgical options like hysterectomy (uterus removal) and myomectomy (fibroid removal).

In short, UFE provides comparable symptom relief to surgical options while offering a much faster, less painful recovery and preserving the uterus — all without the physical and emotional burden of major surgery.

Patient experience and recovery

After the procedure, patients may experience mild cramping or pelvic discomfort similar to menstrual pain for a day or two. These symptoms are effectively managed with prescribed medications. Most women can walk the same day and return home shortly after observation.

Recovery typically includes:

• Rest for 1–2 days.
• Return to work and routine activities within a week.
• Gradual symptom improvement over 4–6 weeks as fibroids shrink.

At RIVEA Vascular Institute, every patient receives personalized post-procedure care, including follow-up imaging (usually an ultrasound or MRI) to assess fibroid reduction and recovery. The team remains in touch to ensure optimal outcomes and a smooth return to normal life.

Who can benefit from UFE

UFE is ideal for:

• Women with symptomatic fibroids (heavy bleeding, prolonged periods, pelvic pain, or pressure).
• Those who wish to avoid hysterectomy and preserve their uterus.
• Patients who are not suitable for surgery due to medical conditions.

However, UFE may not be recommended for:

• Women with very large fibroids distorting the uterus.
• Those planning immediate pregnancy, where surgical myomectomy may be preferred.

A detailed evaluation by an interventional radiologist helps determine the best treatment approach for each individual.

Why choose RIVEA for Uterine Fibroid Embolization in Hyderabad

Hyderabad has rapidly become a hub for advanced interventional radiology, offering world-class, minimally invasive solutions for vascular and women’s health conditions.

At the forefront of this innovation is RIVEA Vascular Institute, co-founded and co-led by Dr. Arjun Reddy, a leading Interventional Radiologist in Hyderabad, known for his expertise in performing complex IR therapies and embolization procedures with precision and care.

RIVEA’s specialized setup for Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) ensures:

• Precision-guided embolization using the Allia IGS 7 system, a state-of-the-art imaging platform that enhances accuracy, safety, and procedural efficiency.
• Day-care comfort supported by advanced pain management and rapid recovery protocols.
• Comprehensive patient support, from detailed consultation to personalized post-procedure follow-up.

For women suffering from fibroids, Uterine Fibroid Embolization offers a minimally invasive, uterus-preserving solution. With growing awareness among women in Hyderabad, UFE is emerging as a preferred, safe, and effective alternative to traditional fibroid surgery.

With expert care from Dr. Arjun Reddy and the advanced interventional radiology facilities at RIVEA Vascular Institute, patients can look forward to lasting relief, recovery and comfort without the pain, scars, or downtime of major surgery.

If you’re struggling with fibroid-related symptoms, consult the specialists at RIVEA Vascular Institute to discover whether UFE is the right choice for you.