Uterine Fibroid Embolisation (UFE)

James Lyon, MD
Sharp Memorial Hospital, San Diego, USA

Patient History

  • 48-year-old female with 3-year history of menorrhagia with symptomatic fibroids.
  • Hysteroscopic resection of a submucosal fibroid attempted but unsuccessful.

Bead Block Case 9 fig 1
Pre-aortogram

Procedure

  • UFE performed using a 6Fr sheath introduced into the right common femoral artery.
  • Initial aortogram performed assessing traditional supply to the fibroids.
  • A 5Fr Cobra 2 Glidecath was advanced over the aortic bifurcation into the left hypogastric artery.
  • The uterine artery was catheterised to its distal ascending segment using a .014” wire and microcatheter.
  • Angiogram confirmed placement of the microcatheter distal to the cervical-vaginal branch and proximal to the first fibroid branch.
  • Peri-fibroid plexus vessels were incrementally embolised using a total of 2ml of 500-700μm and 1ml of 700-900μm Bead Block microspheres until complete occlusion.
  • The right hypogastric artery was then catheterised and the microcatheter reintroduced into the right uterine artery.
  • The right uterine artery was then embolised using 2ml of 500-700μm Bead Block microspheres until complete occlusion.

Outcome

  • Final aortogram confirmed devascularisation without anomalous arterial blood supply.
Bead Block Case 9 fig 2

Pre-embolisation: left uterine artery

Bead Block Case 9 fig 3

Pre-embolisation: right uterine artery

Bead Block Case 9 fig 4

Post-embolisation: left uterine artery

Bead Block Case 9 fig 5

Post-embolisation: right uterine artery

Bead Block Case 9 fig 6

Post-aortogram