Definition: Fibroids (leiomyomas) are a benign tumor of the uterus that can cause abnormal or heavy menstrual cycles. If large enough, they may also cause urinary frequency and abdominal fullness.
Treatment: Uterine fibroid embolization is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure to treat fibroids by targeting the supplying vessels (uterine arteries). Fibroid embolization has been extensively studied and proven to be a safe and effective alternative to hysterectomy.
Definition: Abnormally dilated veins in the pelvis can lead to chronic pain in the pelvis or low back. Typical pelvic pain associated with pelvic congestion is worse with prolonged standing or activity, worse around the time of menstruation, and worse during pregnancy. Occasionally, enlarged veins may form on the upper thighs or labia.
Treatment: As an alternative to hysterectomy, interventional radiology offers a minimally invasive endovascular treatment/sclerotherapy of the abnormal veins which has been shown to significantly improve symptoms. The entire treatment is performed through a small catheter in the vein. The procedure typically takes less than 1 hour to perform and does not require a hospital stay.
