This post is an edited transcript of a video by Dr Andrew Lawson on Youtube which gives an overview of the Uterine Fibroid Embolisation procedure for patients.

Uterine Fibroid Embolisation Procedure

The Uterine Fibroid Embolisation procedure done to treat fibroids is pain-free and takes 15 to 20 minutes to complete. There is no need for an adrenal anaesthetic and takes place in a theatre in a hospital complex.

During the Procedure

You are wheeled into the theatre complex and the procedure starts. A small amount of local anaesthetic is administered adjacent to your right hip, where the femoral artery is accessed. A small flexible catheter is then introduced and manipulated in the blood vessels using x-ray guidance – you will feel absolutely nothing.

After the Procedure

Upon completion, you are taken back to your hospital bed. Unfortunately, at this point, there will be some pain related to the dying fibroids. A very strong painkiller is then administered, intravenously (into the vein) to give significant pain relief for the vital first 12 to 16 hours post-procedure.

You’ll be discharged by the next morning, feeling very comfortable and for the next few days (4 – 5 days), you’ll be taking pain medication by mouth, which keeps the pain under control. The recommended time off is usually two weeks and even though you will be able to fulfil all your normal daily activities –  we do not advise going back to work at that time. 

For more information about the procedure go to the Fibroid treatment page and watch more videos on Fibroid Care’s Youtube channel.