Uterine Fibroid Embolization

If you have been diagnosed with Uterine Fibroids, you may not have been told that uterine fibroid embolization is:

  • non-surgical, same-day treatment
  • preserves the uterus
  • minimally invasive
  • fast recovery times
  • FDA-approved

Dr. Kasthuri uses x-ray guidance to put tiny, sand-sized particles in the appropriate blood vessels so as to cut off blood supply to fibroids.  Take our 3-minute online quiz to see if you qualify!

Learn More About Uterine Fibroid Embolization

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What are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are benign cell overgrowths on or inside the uterus. Estrogen and progesterone levels during childbearing years seem to play a role in the development and growth of fibroids.

Uterine fibroids don’t always require an intervention. However, given time, they can cause painful and irritating symptoms: 

  • Heavy periods
  • Cramps
  • Feeling of fullness in the belly
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Urge to urinate
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What treatment options do I have for fibroids?

You don’t need surgery for fibroids unless they’re problematic. Birth control pills and over-the-counter pain relievers may be enough to relieve your symptoms. However, if you experience intolerable pain or have heavy bleeding or cramping, you may consider other treatment options.

If conservative treatments don’t help with your fibroids, you may consider one of three procedures: minimally invasive uterine fibroid embolization, surgical myomectomy, or hysterectomy.  Uterine fibroid embolization is a same-day, non-surgical intervention that preserves your uterus.

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What is uterine fibroid embolization?

Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure, a safe and effective fibroid treatment option that may be used as an non-surgical alternative to hysterectomy. UFE shrinks the fibroids by blocking blood flow to them, relieving symptoms without surgery and preserving your uterus.

During the procedure, Dr. Kasthuri inserts a small tube into your upper thigh artery while you are consciously sedated. He then injects contrast dye through the tube and uses X-ray guidance to find the blood vessels that supply blood to the fibroids so he can block the blood flow to them with tiny, sand-sized particles. This causes them to slowly shrink or disappear. 

To discuss embolization as a possible treatment for your uterine fibroids, set up an appointment with Dr. Kasthuri online or over the phone at 509-588-7613. 

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Why choose NWES for my UFE?

Expertise – Dr. Kasthuri is a board-certified interventional radiologist with 20+ years of experience performing minimally invasive vascular procedures and uterine fibroid embolization.

A Better Experience – Dr. Kasthuri and his seasoned staff pride themselves on providing a great experience for our patients, taking time to listen to their concerns and answer any questions they have. We will make sure you are safe and comfortable before, during, and after your procedure. Don’t take our word for it – read testimonials from dozens of satisfied patients.

Less Downtime – UFE at NWES is an outpatient procedure, meaning you go back to the comfort of your home on the same day . Dr. Kasthuri uses a unique strategy to numb the nerve near the uterus, greatly diminishing the pain experienced in what was once considered a painful procedure. Patients typically feel well and can return to most activities within one week of the procedure.

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Is UFE right for me?

. You may be a good candidate for UFE if:

  • Your fibroids are symptomatic or disrupt your daily life.
  • You want to keep your uterus.
  • You do not want any surgery or cannot have surgery due to medical issues.
  • You need to reduce recovery time required to get back to work/family.

If you think you’d be a good candidate, or if you’re not sure, take our short eligibility quiz.

Dr. Kasthuri poses in the room where he conducts advanced, minimally invasive surgeries in an outpatient setting.

Saravanan Kasthuri, MD

Northwest Endovascular Surgery

Interventional Radiologist & Endovascular Surgeon located in Benton County, Richland, WA

Your Health Starts Here

At Northwest Endovascular Surgery we are committed to your health and will be by your side every step of the way. 

To schedule flexible appointments, for questions, or concerns, please request an appointment.

Or call — 509-588-7613

“My experience was fantastic. Dr. Kasthuri explained all procedures and took the time to answer all my questions.”

-Richard W.