Quick Links
UFE vs. Acessa™: Choosing the Right Fibroid Treatment
Women with uterine fibroids often seek minimally invasive solutions that preserve their uterus. Two prominent treatments available today are Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) and Acessa™. Understanding their differences will help you choose the best option.
What Is the Acessa™ Procedure?
The Acessa™ procedure, approved by the FDA in 2012, is surgical treatment performed by a gynecologist. It uses radiofrequency energy, delivered through laparoscopic instruments, to heat and destroy fibroids individually. Acessa™ typically requires general anesthesia and multiple small surgical incisions.
What Is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)?
UFE is a non-surgical, minimally invasive outpatient procedure performed by an interventional radiologist. It involves inserting a thin catheter through a tiny incision in the wrist or groin. Small particles are injected to block the blood supply to fibroids, causing them to shrink significantly, resolving symptoms over time.
UFE vs. Acessa™: Procedure Comparison
| Factor | UFE | Acessa™ |
| Procedure Type | Minimally invasive, non-surgical | Minimally invasive surgical procedure |
| Performed By | Interventional Radiologist | Gynecologist (OB/GYN) |
| Procedure Duration | Typically under 1 hour | Approximately 2 hours |
| Anesthesia Type | Local anesthesia or IV sedation | General anesthesia |
| Hospital Stay | Outpatient (return home same day) | Usually outpatient but in surgical centers |
| Recovery Time | Approximately 4-5 days | Up to one week |
| Insurance Coverage | Widely covered | Limited insurance coverage |
| Treats All Fibroids | ✅ Yes – treats all sizes and locations | ❌ No – limited to certain sizes and locations |
| Size Limitations of Fibroids | No limitations | Only fibroids smaller than 10 cm |
| Number of Fibroids Treated | All fibroids treated simultaneously | Primarily dominant fibroids only |
| Fertility Preservation | ✅ Preserves fertility, safe future pregnancies | ❌ Not recommended for future pregnancy |
| Treats Adenomyosis | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Uterus Integrity | Completely preserved | Completely preserved |
| Long-term Success Rate | ✅ 90% success rate (25+ years clinical data) | Limited long-term data available |
| Risk of Complications | Very low (less than 1%) | Moderate (surgical risks: infection, bleeding, organ damage) |
Risks and Complications:
Acessa™ potential risks:
- Infection, bleeding
- Urinary complications
- Adhesion formation
- Complications from anesthesia
- Potential damage to surrounding organs
UFE potential risks:
- Temporary cramping or discomfort post-procedure
- Rare premature menopause in women near menopausal age
- Overall very low complication rate (<1%)
Why Choose UFE?
- Less invasive and safer than surgical options.
- Treats all fibroids, regardless of size or location.
- Covered by virtually all insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
- Fertility preservation, allowing safe pregnancies afterward.
- Proven effectiveness (90% success rate over 25+ years).
Providers
Make an Informed Choice with South Florida Vascular Associates
At South Florida Vascular Associates, our experienced interventional radiologists specialize in Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), offering safe, effective, and minimally invasive relief from fibroid symptoms.
Schedule your consultation today to determine the best treatment option for you.