UTERINE ARTERY EMBOLISATION (UAE) FOR UTERINE AVM
What is UAE:
- Uterine Artery Embolisation (UAE) is a minimally invasive procedure done under local anaesthesia, using fluoroscopy guidance.
- Uterine AVM is vascular malformation in which abnormal connection between arterial and venous channel. It is usually present with heavy bleeding and commonly seen after D&C (removal of tissue from uterus).
Why it is preferred:
Advantages of Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)
- Minimally invasive – Uterine artery embolization treatment is a non-surgical treatment.
- Fast recovery – 1 or 2 days hospital stay and women return to normal within days.
- Significant improvement in quality of life – Relief from heavy bleeding.
- Uterus sparing (SAVE THE UTERUS) – Fibroid embolization keeps the uterus intact preserving hormonal function and fertility in women of childbearing age.
- Safe and non-toxic – No drugs or hormones.
How it performed:
- An Interventional Radiologist inserts a thin catheter inside a thigh artery and guides it to the uterine artery. Tiny round particles called PVA (Poly Vinyl Alcohol) are injected into the blood vessels of the uterine artery for embolisation.
- These particles block blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink. The PVA particles remain permanently at the fibroid site.
What do you expect after treatment:
- After a uterine artery embolization, there is relief from heavy bleeding.
Preparation for the procedure:
- Few basic blood investigations like CBC, PT/INR, viral markers.
- Fasting for 4-6 hrs.
- Bring all the records including imaging record.
- Signing consent form.
What are the risks:
- Pain, vaginal discharge, temporary amenorrhea, infection.
