UFE Patient Preparation

Prior to Scheduling

• A gynecological work-up will be done by your GYN Physician.
  
  • Ultrasound or MRI of the uterus
  • Endometrial biopsy
  • Lab Work: CBC, PT, PTT, INR, BUN, Creatine, Serum
  • Pregancy Test
  • EKG
  • Chest X-ray
• A written referral from your Gynecologist requesting UFE
• Once the information above is obtained, The Interventional Radiology Nurse will contact you to schedule procedure and a pre-registration appointment.

Pre-Registration Appointment

You will be given an appointment with the Interventional Radiology Nurse. At that time:

• You will be given written instructions to prepare for the procedure. This is a good time to ask any questions you may have.
• You will be given several prescriptions to be filled prior to the procedure. Please bring them with you on the day of the procedure.
• You will be registered for your procedure at this time.

Procedure Day

• Remember to arrive at the Radiology department at the time requested during your Pre-registration interview. The Radiology Department is located on the second floor of Schneider Regional Medical Center.
• Remember not to eat or drink anything after midnight the night before.
• Bring the medication you are to take after the procedure with you to the hospital.
• Take only the medications the nurse instructs you to take.
• When you arrive to the Radiology Department, give your name to the person at the front desk and the nurse will come out to greet you.
• You must have a responsible adult with you at the time of discharge and 48 hours after the procedure.

Post-Procedure Care

• Day-long stay in hospital for symptom management and observation
• Transient pelvic cramping 8-12 hrs after procedure relieved with intravenous and oral medication. Nausea may occur and treated with antinausea medications.
• Discharge that evening with oral medications for possible cramping, nausea or fever.

Post-UFE at Home

• Mild to moderate cramping typically several days
• Most women return to work in 3-4 days and report full recovery in 1-2 weeks
• 20% may develop temporary fever known as Post-Embolization Syndrome, can last up to one week. Treated with anti-inflammatory over the counter medicines
• Follow up appointment in 2 weeks. Follow up MRI in 3-6 months.