Instead of cutting out fibroids, UFE blocks their blood supply. Tiny particles are injected into the uterine arteries, starving the fibroids. The uterine fibroid market research shows that UFE is the largest treatment segment, because it's effective, has a short recovery, and preserves the uterus. Patients go home the next day and return to work in a week.
What's the catch? UFE isn't for everyone. It's not recommended if you want to become pregnant (fibroids may grow back, and there are risks to the uterus). The uterine fibroid market trends highlight that myolysis (using heat or cold to destroy fibroids) is the fastest‑growing treatment, as it offers a middle ground between UFE and surgery.
What's new? Radiofrequency ablation (Acessa, Sonata) — a probe is inserted through the cervix or abdomen, and heat destroys fibroids. Also, laparoscopic myomectomy for women who want to preserve fertility.
The bottom line: if you're done with childbearing and have symptomatic fibroids, UFE is a great option. If you want to get pregnant, myomectomy is safer.
