Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a new way of treating fibroid tumors of the uterus. This approach to the treatment of fibroids blocks the arteries that supply blood to the fibroids causing them to shrink. It is a minimally-invasive procedure, which means it requires only a tiny nick in the skin, and is performed while the patient is conscious but sedated — drowsy and feeling no pain.

Fibroid embolization is performed by an interventional radiologist, a physician who is specially trained to perform this and other minimally-invasive procedures.