Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)

About Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure that shrinks uterine fibroids by cutting off their blood supply — offering women a safe and effective alternative to hysterectomy or myomectomy. At M&S Vascular and Orthopedic Group in Forest Hills, Queens, Dr. Amir Salem performs UFE to treat symptomatic fibroids causing heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure, frequent urination, and abdominal bloating. Uterine fibroids affect up to 80% of women by age 50, yet many are unaware that non-surgical options exist. During UFE, Dr. Salem threads a thin catheter through a small puncture in the wrist and uses real-time X-ray guidance to deliver tiny microspheres into the arteries feeding the fibroids. These particles block blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink over the following weeks and months. The procedure takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes, requires only local anesthesia and conscious sedation, and preserves the uterus. Most women go home the same day and return to normal activities within one to two weeks — far shorter than the six-to-eight-week recovery typical of hysterectomy. UFE has a 90% success rate in reducing fibroid symptoms and is covered by most insurance plans. If you are in Forest Hills, Queens, Great Neck, Long Island, or the surrounding area and suffering from fibroid symptoms, M&S Vascular and Orthopedic Group can help you find relief without major surgery.

What to Expect

Your UFE journey begins with a consultation at our Forest Hills office, including a detailed review of your symptoms, pelvic exam, and imaging (MRI or ultrasound) to map your fibroids. On procedure day, you receive local anesthesia and light sedation. Dr. Salem makes a small puncture in the wrist, threads a micro-catheter to the uterine arteries under live X-ray guidance, and delivers tiny microspheres to block blood flow to the fibroids. The procedure takes 45 to 60 minutes. Afterward, you rest in our recovery area and go home the same day. Mild to moderate cramping is common for the first few days and is managed with prescribed pain medication. Most women return to work and normal activities within one to two weeks and see significant symptom improvement within one to three months as the fibroids shrink.

Who Is This For?

Women experiencing heavy or prolonged menstrual periods, pelvic pain or pressure, frequent urination, bloating, or pain during intercourse caused by uterine fibroids — especially those who want to avoid hysterectomy or preserve their uterus.

Frequently Asked Questions