UFE vs. Fibroid Surgery

Fibroid Surgery Facts You Should Know

Uterine fibroids are common non-cancerous tumors that grow in and around the uterus. Many women develop fibroids before age 50, experiencing mild to severe symptoms such as abdominal pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and anemia. While some women manage symptoms through medication, others require treatment to remove or reduce fibroids.

Fibroid Surgery Options

Women typically consult their OB-GYN when symptoms become severe, and surgery is frequently suggested. The primary surgical options include:

Myomectomy: Removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus. Techniques vary based on fibroid size, location, and patient conditions:

• Hysteroscopic Myomectomy: Minimally invasive procedure removing fibroids within the uterus using a special tool inserted vaginally. Typically an outpatient procedure.
• Open Myomectomy: Invasive surgery involving a larger abdominal incision. Requires hospital stay (1-4 days) and recovery can last up to 3 months.
• Laparoscopic Myomectomy: Minimally invasive surgery with several small abdominal incisions using a laparoscope. Recovery is faster but may not remove all fibroids.
• Robotic Myomectomy: Similar to laparoscopic myomectomy but utilizes robotic technology for precision. Typically more costly.

Hysterectomy: Complete or partial removal of the uterus. Types include:

• Total Hysterectomy: Removal of entire uterus and cervix.
• Partial Hysterectomy: Removal of uterus only, cervix remains.
• Radical Hysterectomy: Typically performed for cancer cases, removing uterus, cervix, and upper vagina, possibly including lymph nodes and ovaries.

Recovery from hysterectomy ranges from 6 to 12 weeks and may have significant physical and emotional impacts.

Endometrial Ablation: Non-surgical treatment to alleviate heavy bleeding by destroying the uterine lining. Does not remove fibroids or preserve fertility.

“Dr. Julien and his people are the most cohesive, personable and professional I’ve ever come across. From the time I walk in to when I leave I feel like they care about me. The result is good healing.”

– James R.

“Staff is awesome! Extremely knowledgeable & professional. They explained every step to me and spent plenty of time to answer my questions.”

– Anthony P.

“I was referred to Dr. W. Julian by my PCP and very happy that I was. Dr. Julian found a clogged artery that could have been life threatening if left untreated. My experience from consult to discharge was met courtesy, warmth and professionalism which helped me through my procedure. Sean greeted me and my son who explained the whole process and what to expect. I was also looked after by Josh, Jackie and Reuben who could not have been more supportive or communicative through this adventure.”

– Lorette K.

“The whole staff were very professional and very helpful in navigating me through every procedure, treatments and follow ups. I would certainly recommend South Florida Vascular Associates.”

– Don S.

“I have been very impressed by the way this office functions. Each and every person I’ve encountered has been very personable and professional. I’ve had minimal wait times before being seen. The tests I’ve had were done efficiently and results explained to me quickly. I would highly recommend this office.”

– Robert G.

“All of the staff were friendly, courteous, and professional. Examination and consultation were thorough and expedited in a timely manner. I felt relaxed throughout the visit and all my medical questions and concerns were met and answered to my satisfaction. Would recommend this office to anyone seeking vascular care.”

– Felix G.

“I highly recommend this office for any vascular procedure you may need. The staff are awesome. They were very considerate and professional. My procedures were all a success and I am very happy with the end result. Top marks on everything.”

– Todd H.

“I'd like to express my gratitude for taking care of me this past Monday for the venous procedure on my legs. Please extend my gratitude to the staff who took care of me, like Anissa Rodriguez, Josh Rush, Kerx, Maruli, Rosaline, and Daniela. You were all so very professional and kind.”

– Luis M.

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Risks of Fibroid Removal Surgery

Surgery can involve risks such as infection, scarring, infertility, complications requiring additional procedures, bowel or urinary issues, and fibroid recurrence within 5 years post-myomectomy.

Alternative Non-Surgical Option: Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)

South Florida Vascular Associates offers Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), a safe, minimally invasive alternative to fibroid surgery. UFE provides:

• Outpatient office procedure with a brief recovery period of 3-7 days.
• Preservation of the uterus, enabling future pregnancies.
• No hospital stay, incisions, or stitches.

Performed by interventional radiologists, UFE is a highly effective treatment preserving women’s physical and mental health.

Providers

William Julien, MD

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Board-Certified Vascular Interventional Physician

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Mana Khatkar, PA-C

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Certified Physician Assistant

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Anissa Rodriguez, NP-C

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Certified Nurse Practitioner

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Explore Your Options at South Florida Vascular Associates

Before opting for surgery, consider UFE at South Florida Vascular Associates. Contact us to discuss how UFE can provide relief and preserve your health.