Uterine Fibroid Treatment by VasCare | UFE
UFE Relief Beyond Surgery
VasCare’s Minimally Invasive Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) Treatment for Symptomatic Fibroids.
As many as 70% of women will develop noncancerous tumors in the uterus known as fibroids during their reproductive years. Often, these growths will cause no symptoms, but when they do they can include heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged periods, and pelvic pain.
If you’re suffering from symptomatic fibroids, VasCare can treat them with a minimally invasive outpatient procedure known as UFE. With our state-of-the-art facilities and radial access technique for faster recovery, we are the only outpatient UFE practitioners in Corpus Christi.

Are You a Candidate? Take the Assessment.
Understanding UFE Procedure
Fibroids grow in response to hormones like estrogen and progesterone. Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive procedure that works by cutting off the blood supply to the fibroids, depriving them of the nutrients they need to grow. As a result, the fibroids shrink over time, and symptoms improve. Our patients experience 90%+ symptom reduction in just 3 months.
This procedure is done without large surgical incisions. Instead, small cuts and advanced imaging technology are used to access and treat the fibroids, resulting in shorter recovery times and less risk of complications compared to traditional surgery.
Benefits of a UFE Procedure
Preserve Your Uterus
Minimally Invasive
Short Recovery Time
Efficient Treatment
Low Complication Rate
What are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids, predominantly non-cancerous growths within the uterus, can lead to a variety of painful symptoms, such as abdominal pain, excessive menstrual bleeding, bloating, and even fertility issues. Non-reproductive symptoms such as frequent urination and constipation are also common due to mass effect. A condition that occurs when the fibroids grow large enough to put pressure on nearby organs such as the bladder and rectum. These symptoms can hinder your daily activities, underscoring the importance of finding a dependable and effective treatment solution.
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Types of Fibroids
Fibroids are classified based on their location on the uterus, and it’s common for women to have multiple types at once, complicating diagnosis and treatment. The main types include:
Subserosal Fibroids
Submucosal Fibroids
Intramural Fibroids
Pedunculated Fibroids
What are the Symptoms of Fibroids? How Can I Tell If I Have Fibroids?
Many individuals with uterine fibroids may not realize they have them due to minimal or non-existent symptoms. Nonetheless, it’s important to recognize potential signs, which include:
Excessive Menstrual Bleeding
Pelvic Pain and Pressure
Urinary Issues
The proximity of the uterus to the bladder means that an enlarged uterus can press against the bladder, leading to frequent urination and urinary incontinence or the unintended release of urine.
Digestive Discomfort
UFE Benefits & Procedures
UFE vs Hysterectomy vs Myomectomy
What Is a UFE?
Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a method of treating fibroids by depriving them of nutrients by cutting off their blood supply. This is done in an outpatient procedure via a catheter inserted through a blood vessel guided by X-ray, where it releases embolizing agents to inhibit blood flow to the fibroids. The fibroids then begin to shrink over the ensuing weeks and months after the treatment. The uterus’ blood supply is left unimpeded and the uterus itself is preserved. UFE is a less invasive and safer treatment option in women than a myomectomy.
What Is a Hysterectomy?
A hysterectomy is surgical removal of all or part of the uterus. Fibroids are a common reason for hysterectomy recommendations, although uterine prolapse, cancer, and chronic pelvic pain are other conditions for which doctors use hysterectomy as a treatment. Hysterectomy for fibroids may be either partial (supracervical), in which just the upper part of the uterus is removed but the cervix is left in place, or total, in which both are fully removed. The fallopian tubes and ovaries are sometimes removed, as well.
What Is a Myomectomy?
A myomectomy is a surgery specifically designed to remove uterine fibroids. A myomectomy can be a major surgery that can require hospitalization. There are three types of myomectomies: abdominal or “open,” laparoscopic or hysteroscopic. With any surgery, there is a higher risk of complications, such as excessive blood loss, development of blood clots, infection, and complications with pregnancy after the procedure. Myomectomy requires 2 – 6 weeks to recover, and have a higher incidence of regrowth of fibroids.
What To Expect



Consultation
1. Initial Consultation and Symptom Review
You will have an initial consultation in which your doctor will explain the UFE procedure, discuss your symptoms and medical history, and answer any questions.
2. Physical Exam and Diagnostic Imaging
A physical exam is required, and you may need additional blood work or imaging, such as an MRI to confirm the condition and help develop a treatment strategy.
3. Assessing Suitability & Next Steps
If we determine UFE is right for you, you’ll be given clear directions on how to prepare for your procedure, such as when to stop eating and drinking beforehand.
Procedure
1. Arrival at the Facility
You’ll check in at the clinic or hospital and be escorted to the procedure area. Our team will guide you through each step and answer any last-minute questions.
2. Changing & Final Preparation
You’ll change into a medical gown and remove any jewelry or personal items. A nurse will review your medical history, confirm your consent forms, and prepare you for the procedure.
3. Anesthesia & Relaxation
An IV will be started in your arm or hand to give you medication that helps you relax. Local anesthesia will be applied to numb the groin area where the catheter will be inserted.
4. Catheter Insertion
Once you are comfortably positioned on the procedure table, the doctor will make a small incision in the numbed area. A thin, flexible catheter is inserted into a blood vessel and guided by X-ray imaging to the arteries that supply the fibroids.
5. Embolization Process
Through the catheter, embolizing agents—tiny particles designed to block blood vessels—are released. These block the blood flow that feeds the fibroids, causing them to shrink over time.
6. Monitoring & Imaging
Your heart rate, blood pressure, breathing, and oxygen levels are closely monitored throughout. Additional X-rays confirm that the targeted arteries are fully blocked before the catheter and sheath are removed.
Follow-Up Care
1. Post-Procedure Monitoring
After the procedure, you’ll be monitored in the recovery area until your vital signs are stable. Once you’re ready to go home, you’ll receive clear instructions on what to expect during recovery.
2. Instructions for Recovery
You’ll be given instructions on how to care for yourself after your UFE, including guidance on activity and managing discomfort. During the first few days, you’ll be advised to avoid strenuous activity. Gradually resume normal activities as you feel able, following your healthcare provider’s guidance.
3. Follow-Up Visits
A follow-up appointment is typically scheduled within 1–2 weeks of your procedure. Around 6 months later, your doctor may recommend an ultrasound or MRI to check how well the fibroids have responded to treatment.
How to Know if You’re a Good Candidate for UFE
Generally, you may be a candidate for UFE if:
✓ You’re experiencing fibroid symptoms such as pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, or constipation
✓ You prefer to avoid surgery or are not a surgical candidate due to medical conditions, previous surgeries, anesthesia or blood loss risks, or personal preference
✓ You’re considering pregnancy in the future
✓ You want a shorter recovery time compared to traditional surgical options
If pregnant, patient would need to wait until after delivery to pursue treatment.
Every patient’s situation is unique, and we want to make sure you receive the treatment that’s best for you. The most reliable way to determine if you’re a good candidate for Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists. During that visit, we’ll discuss your symptoms, medical history, treatment preferences, fertility goals, and overall health.
Meet Our Experienced UFE Specialists
Dr. Llewellyn Lee – Board-certified Vascular & Interventional Radiologist
Corpus Christi, TexasDr. Jennifer Mike-Mayer – Board-certified Vascular Surgeon
Corpus Christi, TexasWhat Our Patients Are Saying
Fibroid FAQs
What are uterine fibroids?
Uterine fibroids, or leiomyomas, are growths of muscle and connective tissue in or on the uterus. They are typically noncancerous and in fact almost never develop into cancer. You may have a single fibroid or multiple ones in a cluster, ranging in size from a fraction of an inch each to 8 inches or more.
Learn more: What are uterine fibroids?
What causes fibroids?
- a family history of fibroids
- vitamin D deficiency
- being in childbearing years but not having children
- early onset of menstruation
- late onset of menopause
What are the symptoms of fibroids?
Typical signs of fibroids include:
- backache or leg pain
- heavy/abnormal/overly lengthy menstrual bleeding
- frequent or difficult urination
- constipation
- pelvic pain/pressure
- enlarged abdomen
- pain during intercourse
Learn more about the symptoms of fibroids.
Do I need to treat fibroids?
In many instances of fibroids, no treatment is necessary, and the fibroids will shrink after menopause. However, if they’re causing you pain or other problems, you should seek treatment.
How are fibroids diagnosed?
Pelvic exams often reveal the presence of fibroids, which are then confirmed with ultrasound or MRI.
Are fibroids a type of cancer?
Can postmenopausal women get fibroids?
Is UFE a viable treatment for postmenopausal women with fibroids?
Get Relief From Fibroids Symptoms With a Minimally Invasive Procedure
Schedule a consultation with our specialists at VasCare to discuss your treatment options.