Complications of uterine fibroid embolization

Brian E. Schirf, Robert L. Vogelzang, Howard B. Chrisman*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

51 Scopus citations

Abstract

Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is an increasingly popular, minimally invasive treatment option for women with symptomatic fibroid disease. UFE therapy in qualified hands is an effective, well-tolerated procedure that offers relief of fibroid symptoms with a low risk of complications. In the acute postprocedural period, immediate complications may relate to vascular access, thromboembolic events, infection, and pain management. Reported major complications include but are not limited to pulmonary embolus, uterine ischemia, necrosis, sepsis, and death. Non-life-threatening complications include altered ovarian and sexual function, subcutaneous tissue necrosis, expulsion of fibroid tissue, and treatment failure. Awareness of the known complications of UFE may allow more rapid diagnosis and effective therapeutic responses to complications when they occur.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)143-149
Number of pages7
JournalSeminars in Interventional Radiology
Volume23
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2006

Keywords

  • Complications
  • Embolization
  • Fibroids

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Radiology Nuclear Medicine and imaging

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