FAS vs UAE for Fibroids

I am about at the end of my rope with these Gynecologists! I am 52 years old and suffering with approximately 3 fibroids (average 14 weeks in size). Since 1998, I have been having a lot of pain and heavy bleeding. I have been to 3 different doctors who don’t advocate a myomectomy at my age. The only options I have been given are the Lupron shots or hysterectomy which are not optons for me. Over the past 3 years I have looked to natural alternatives that seemed to have worked for a while,including Dr. Lee’s progesterone treatment. Searching for other alternatives, I came across UAE (Uterine Artery Embolization) and consulted my doctor about this procedure. My doctor now has given me UAE as an option. Although, I would opt for this procedure over a hysterectomy, I am still not comfortable with it. Restricting blood flow to the uterus in my opinion, can cause other problems with the uterus. I have been trying to wait for menopause but a recent blood test confirmed that my blood is low and the bleeding during my periods is lasting longer (almost a month). I have been told by my doctor that I need to make a decision soon because of anemia. If I don’t get the hysterectomy, UAE is the only option I have. Could you please give me the Pros and Cons of your FAS vs UAE for Fibroids.

Dea Cunah-
You do have an alternative-it is FAS.
I do not recommend Lupron or UAE. UAE is not capable of treating ALL the fibroids in the uterus. Most of my patients come to the office with many more fibroids, than discovered on their ultrasound. We are removing approx 22 tumors per patient-this would not be possible with UAE. I feel it is very important to treat the entire uterus and not leave any tumors behind. Whatever is left, will continue to grow and spread and eventually produce further symptoms.
Many patients also have other problems ie uterine prolapse, ovarian cysts or hernias not detected until surgery. FAS will also take care of these problems during surgery. This is not possible with UAE.
I had to operate on a post UAE patient several years ago. She came to office in severe pain. The UAE procedure had not only stopped the blood supply to her fibroid, but also the healthy uterine muscle. Half of her uterus had become necrotic, and required removal.
FAS is safe, thorough and effective.
Do not put off your decision any longer. Good Luck

QUESTION??? I AM A 4O YEAR OLD AFRICAN AMERICAN. I HAVE HAD 1 SURGERY TO REMOVE FIBROID TUMORS AND ENDOMETRIOSIS. SINCE THEN I HAVE HAD 2 C-SECTIONS, LEAVING BEHIND SEVERAL SMALL TUMORS AFTER THE LAST BIRTH. WITHIN 5 YEARS THOSE SMALL TUMORS HAVE GROWN TO THE SIZE OF (10 WEEKS IN SIZE), HEAVY BLEEDING, CRAMPING, PAIN, BLADDER DISCOMFORT, UP ABOUT 3-4 TIMES EACH NIGHT, CONTROLLING MY BLADDER IS BECOMING A REAL PROBLEM. AFTER MY PHYSICAL IN JANUARY, 2001, MY GYNECOLOGIST RECOMMENDED A HYSTERECTOMY AND POSSIBLY REMOVING MY OVARIES IF THERE IS PRESENCE OF ENDOMETRIOSIS AT THAT TIME OF THE SURGERY. (SO I WON’T KNOW THAT UNTIL I WAKE UP). I HAVE READ YOUR WEB-PAGE AND I AM AFRAID OF HAVING THE PROBLEMS THAT MENOPAUSE CAN BRING, AND HAVING TO TAKE HOROMONE PILLS THE REST OF MY LIFE. I WOULD APPRECIATE ANY ADVISE THAT YOU GIVE. THANKS IN ADVANCE!!!!

Dear Bridgit-
You posted under UAE vs FAS-UAE will not address your multiple fibroids or your endometriosis.
I do not believe in removing organs for benign disease. Many physicians disagree with this philosophy.We can most definitely help you with FAS;both diagnoses would be treated with a laser and your organs preserved. You will probably have difficulty finding someone with a similar attitude.
It is up to you. Good Luck

Hello Dr.

I had a very, very large uterus, MRI done in April 03 prior to UAE, confirmed a 24cm uterus. Due to fear, I waited nearly 8 years to do something about my fibroids. I did not want a hysterectomy and there were no other options offered to me. Last year, after finding out about UAE, I actualy had the procedure done. (at last MRI done at 6 month post, uterus was 17cm) I have had great relief from the horrendous bleeding, and bloating, which was my main concern.
One month after the UAE, I had the worst bleeding ever and ended up with severe anemia. Hemoglobin was 7.4. Had to have iron shots for over a month.
Nothing worked, but I continued to take my iron supplements and a miracle vitamin called b-6.

Well to make a long story short, the uae worked only about 50%. I still have a large 13cm subsersal fibroid under my left rib cage. To tell you the truth, it was on my left side that this all started. I remember clearly when I was 30 years old, I felt a tiny lump on my lower left abdomen. I regret taking the wait and see approach. Do you think that FAS could help me by removing the fibroid. I think there is a 9 cm one left in the bottom fundus of the uterus, and I believe that’s why I cannot conceive.
I live in Florida, but would travel to get the best medical treatment. Another area of concern for me is adhesions, because I would like to have a child. I have an 17 year old. Had him when I was young. Sorry for the long post, but need your advice.
Thanks much

Trina

Dear Trina-
Thank you for your posting.
FAS can definitely remove your fibroids and reduce the incidence of adhesions, however preserving your fertility cannot be guaranteed. Size and location of tumors will depend if we can save your fertility…and we will not be able to confirm this until the procedure. FAS will save your uterus for hormone regulation and sexual response.
You may have already limited the success of any conception with the UAE…research is indicating that women wishing to preserve fertility should not attempt that procedure due to the reduction of blood supply to the uterus.
FAS can help you with your disease, and maybe your last option for fertility. Good luck