Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) Treatment in Chicago & Libertyville IL
Joint & Vascular Institute
A Minimally Invasive Solution for Uterine Fibroids and Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
At Joint and Vascular Institute, we offer Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), a groundbreaking, minimally invasive treatment for uterine fibroids in Chicago and Libertyville. Our nationally recognized physicians, pioneers in the UFE procedure in Libertyville, use the latest image guided techniques to provide lasting relief, helping you avoid surgery and get back to the activities you love.
Fibroid symptoms do not have to be a part of your life. If you suffer from heavy menstrual bleeding or pelvic pressure that has not responded to other treatments, you may be a candidate for uterine embolization. This innovative procedure is performed in our comfortable outpatient center, allowing you to go home the same day.
Benefits of Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)
No
Large Incisions
A tiny incision means minimal scarring.
Outpatient
Procedure
Go home the same day.
Quick
Recovery
Return to daily activities faster.
Lower
Cost
More affordable than hospital-based surgery.
Avoids
Hysterectomy
A less invasive alternative to major surgery.
Proven
Effectiveness
Clinically proven to reduce bleeding and improve quality of life.
Discover Uterine Fibroid Relief
What is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)?
UFE is a minimally invasive treatment in Chicago that treats fibroids by reducing their blood supply. In a uterus with fibroids, these benign tumors develop abnormal blood vessels that allow them to grow and cause symptoms like heavy bleeding and pain. UFE works by blocking these abnormal vessels with tiny embolic particles, which deprives the fibroids of blood, causing them to shrink and providing significant symptom relief.
The Outpatient Advantage for UFE Treatment
Where you receive your fibroid treatment in Libertyville matters. An outpatient based lab (OBL) like Joint and Vascular Institute offers a more personalized, convenient, and efficient experience compared to a hospital setting.
| Dimension | Joint & Vascular Institute (OBL) | Hospital |
|---|---|---|
| Specialization | UFE Experts: Led by board certified interventional radiologists who are highly experienced in the UFE procedure. | General Care: You may see various doctors, not all of whom specialize in UFE. |
| Technology | State of the art: Equipped with the latest imaging and interventional technology specifically for vascular and women’s health care. | Variable: Technology can vary widely by hospital and department. |
| Experience | Personalized & Comfortable: A private, calm environment focused entirely on your care and comfort. | Institutional & Overwhelming: Large, busy environments with long waits and less personal attention. |
| Scheduling | Fast & Direct: Get an appointment quickly without waiting for weeks or months for a referral. | Slow & Complex: Multiple appointments, long wait times, and complicated scheduling. |
| Cost | Lower Cost: Fewer overhead expenses often result in more affordable care without sacrificing quality. | Higher Cost: Hospital overhead and facility fees lead to significantly higher expenses. |
| Recovery | Go Home Same Day: Recover at home and get back to your life faster. | Hospital Stay: Procedures may require an overnight stay for observation. |
Results & Clinical Evidence
UFE is supported by a growing body of clinical evidence demonstrating its safety and effectiveness. Our physicians at Joint and Vascular Institute are at the forefront of providing this advanced care, utilizing established medical literature to guide treatment.
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, UFE is an effective alternative to hysterectomy or myomectomy, offering a shorter hospital stay and a quicker return to normal activities. This established guidance helps solidify UFE as a viable treatment option for patients suffering from symptomatic fibroids.
Further demonstrating the durability of the procedure, long term data from the EMMY trial provides crucial data on clinical outcomes. This research offers patients valuable insights into what they can expect from UFE treatment over time, showing that in about two thirds of patients, a hysterectomy can be avoided entirely.
Additional important studies further validate the effectiveness of UFE. One such comprehensive review in StatPearls highlights that approximately 90 percent of women experience a reduction in bulk symptoms and a cessation of abnormal bleeding. Another significant paper on safety and efficacy is available from the National Institutes of Health. Together, these peer reviewed studies reinforce the growing body of evidence supporting UFE as a safe and effective treatment option.
Academic Level Care.
Just Next Door.
From your first consultation to every step of your treatment, our providers bring advanced expertise and a personalized approach that puts you first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is UFE painful?
The UFE procedure itself is performed through a tiny incision and is generally not painful. During the treatment, you will be given a local anesthetic and a mild sedative to ensure you remain comfortable and relaxed. While the procedure is well tolerated, it is common to experience moderate to severe pelvic cramping in the first few days following the treatment as the fibroids begin to shrink. Our medical team will provide you with a comprehensive pain management plan, including prescribed medications, to help you manage this discomfort effectively during your recovery at home.
How long does the UFE procedure take?
The UFE procedure typically takes about one to two hours to complete from start to finish. Because it is a minimally invasive treatment performed in our outpatient center, there is no need for an overnight hospital stay. After a brief observation period in our recovery area to ensure you are feeling well, you will be able to go home the very same day to begin your recovery in the comfort of your own home.
How soon can I return to work and normal activities after UFE?
Most women are able to return to work and resume their normal daily activities within one to two weeks after the UFE procedure. This recovery time is significantly shorter than the recovery period required for traditional surgical options like a hysterectomy or myomectomy, which can take up to six weeks. We recommend taking it easy for the first few days and gradually increasing your activity level as you feel comfortable.
Will UFE affect my ability to get pregnant in the future?
While UFE is highly effective at treating fibroid symptoms, its impact on future fertility is an important consideration. Many women have gone on to have successful pregnancies after undergoing UFE. However, because the procedure affects the blood supply to the uterus, there are potential risks to fertility and pregnancy that should be discussed. If you are planning to become pregnant in the future, our specialists will carefully evaluate your individual case and discuss all available treatment options to help you make the best decision for your reproductive health.
What happens to the fibroids after the UFE procedure?
After the embolic agents are injected into the uterine arteries, the blood supply to the fibroids is blocked. Without a blood supply, the fibroid tissue begins to die and shrink over the course of several weeks to months. As the fibroids shrink, the symptoms they cause, such as heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pressure, will gradually improve. The treated fibroids remain in the uterus but are significantly smaller and no longer cause disruptive symptoms.
Take the Next Step
Do not wait for your fibroid symptoms to get worse. The first step toward relief is a comprehensive evaluation with a specialist who understands your condition. At Joint and Vascular Institute, we will diagnose the cause of your symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan to improve your quality of life.
Regain Comfort.
Restore Mobility.
Live Pain-Free.
We are proud to serve patients across Northern Chicago from our Libertyville clinic, including Chicago, Buffalo Grove, Evanston, Gurnee, Highland Park, Lake Forest, Mundelein, Northbrook, Palatine, Skokie, Vernon Hills, Waukegan, Wheeling, Wilmette, and surrounding areas.