Feature

Details

Procedure Name

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) / Uterine Artery Embolisation (UAE)

Major Surgery Required?

❌ No — minimally invasive image-guided procedure

Uterus Removed?

❌ No — uterus fully preserved

Anaesthesia

Local anaesthesia + conscious sedation (no general anaesthesia)

Procedure Duration

30-60 minutes

Hospital Stay

Same day / overnight (usually within 1 day)

Recovery Time

2–5 days return to routine; full shrinkage over 3–6 months

Scarring

None — only a tiny 2mm wrist or groin puncture

Fibroid Shrinkage

40–60% volume reduction on MRI at 6 months

Success Improvement

85–90% symptom relief (RSNA/SIR Clinical Guidelines)

Cost in Hyderabad (2026)

₹1,20,000 – ₹3,50,000 (all-inclusive estimate)

Insurance Coverage

Often covered when medically indicated (heavy bleeding, anaemia)

Best For

Women wanting to avoid hysterectomy, preserve uterus, recover fast

Available At

Citi Vascular Hospital, KPHB Colony, Road No. 1, Hyderabad — Dr. Shaileshkumar Garge

Stage

What Happens Inside the Body

Time Frame

Embolisation

Tiny PVA microspheres block uterine artery branches feeding fibroids

During procedure

Ischaemia

Fibroids are deprived of blood and oxygen

Hours 0–24

Infarction

Fibroid tissue begins to die (necrosis)

Days 1–7

Shrinkage

Fibroid size may decrease over the months following treatment; the extent of shrinkage varies among patients

Weeks 4–12

Symptom relief

Heavy bleeding, pain, pressure symptoms reduce

Months 1–6

Step

Check This Question

YES → Next

NO → Action

1

Do you have heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, frequent urination, or bloating lasting > 2 months?

Go to Step 2 →

Monitor, review in 3 months

2

Has an ultrasound or MRI confirmed uterine fibroids?

Go to Step 3 →

Book imaging at Citi Vascular, KPHB

3

Are fibroids causing anaemia, heavy flooding periods, or significant daily life disruption?

Go to Step 4 →

Medication management may be suitable

4

Do you want to avoid hysterectomy and preserve your uterus?

Go to Step 5 →

Discuss hysterectomy with specialist

5

Are you NOT currently pregnant and have no active pelvic infection?

Go to Step 6 →

UAE not suitable now — treat condition first

6

Your preferred recovery time is one factor to discuss with your treating specialist. UFE/UAE suitability must be determined through clinical evaluation rather than recovery expectations alone.

✅ UFE/UAE is likely your best option

Laparoscopic myomectomy may suit you

Symptom / Condition

UFE Suitable?

Clinical Explanation

Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia)

✅ Yes

UFE may reduce heavy menstrual bleeding, but the timing and degree of improvement vary

Multiple uterine fibroids

✅ Yes

UFE can address multiple fibroids during one procedure, although the response may differ by fibroid and not every fibroid will necessarily respond equally

Pelvic pressure / bloating symptoms

✅ Yes

Fibroid bulk symptoms respond well to UFE shrinkage

Anaemia due to chronic blood loss

✅ Yes

Bleeding reduction usually restores haemoglobin within months

Wish to preserve uterus / avoid surgery

✅ Yes

UFE is uterus-sparing and requires no surgical incision

Need faster recovery (work / family)

✅ Yes

Return-to-work timelines vary according to the individual, the procedure and the nature of the work. Avoid fixed comparisons unless supported by reliable evidence and clearly defined patient groups.

Failed hormonal treatment

✅ Yes

Good option when GnRH analogues or hormones did not give lasting relief

Large fibroids (> 5–8 cm)

✅ Yes

UFE effectively treats large fibroids — MRI confirms suitability

Completed family / uncertain fertility plans

⚠️ Discuss

Specialist evaluation required — individual case assessment

Immediate pregnancy goal (< 6 months)

⚠️ Discuss

Myomectomy may be preferred — discuss reproductive timeline

Condition

Why Specialist Evaluation Is Needed

Pregnancy

Risk to pregnancy

Active pelvic infection

Increased complication risk

Suspected uterine cancer

Requires different treatment

Severe kidney disease

Contrast dye concerns

 Ast allergy

Imaging limitations

Certain fertility plans

Individualized planning required

Benefit 

UFE 

No major surgery

✅ 

No uterus removal  

✅ 

Same-day / next-day discharge 

✅ 

Faster recovery    

✅ 

Minimal scarring  

✅ 

Treats multiple fibroids together

✅ 

Reduced blood loss   

✅ 

Faster return to work

✅ 

Feature

UFE / UAE

Laparoscopic Myomectomy

Open Myomectomy

Hysterectomy

Major Surgery?

❌ No

✅ Yes (minimal)

✅ Yes

✅ Yes

Uterus Preserved?

✅ Yes

✅ Yes

✅ Yes

❌ No

Anaesthesia Type

Local + Sedation

General

General

General

Hospital Stay

1 day

2–3 days

3–5 days

5–7 days

Recovery Time

2–5 days

2–3 weeks

4–6 weeks

6–8 weeks

Scars / Incisions

Tiny puncture only

3–4 small cuts

Large incision

Large incision

Blood Loss Risk

Minimal

Moderate

Higher

Highest

Treats Multiple Fibroids?

✅ All at once

⚠️ Depends

⚠️ Depends

✅ N/A — uterus removed

Fibroid Recurrence

Possible (rare)

~10–20%

~15–25%

None (no uterus)

Fertility After?

Possible — discuss

✅ Usually yes

✅ Usually yes

❌ No

Cost Hyderabad 2026

₹120K – ₹3.5L

₹1L – ₹2L

₹80K – ₹1.6L

₹80K – ₹2L

Return to Work

2–5 days

2–3 weeks

4–6 weeks

6–8 weeks

Not sure if UFE is right for you?

A specialist can review your imaging and clinical history to discuss treatment options appropriate to your individual circumstances.

Check Your Insurance Coverage

Insurance coverage and pre-authorisation requirements depend on the insurer, policy terms and medical indication. Contact the hospital to confirm what assistance is available and whether any related charges apply.

1

Initial Consultation & Symptom History

Share your menstrual history, pelvic symptoms, duration of bleeding, prior scans, and any current medications with Dr. Shaileshkumar Garge at Citi Vascular, KPHB. A detailed clinical assessment is done to determine whether UFE/UAE is the most appropriate treatment. Usually completed in a single 30-60 minute consultation.

2

Pelvic Imaging — Ultrasound + MRI Planning

Pelvic ultrasound is commonly used to assess fibroids. MRI may be recommended to clarify fibroid size, location and characteristics and to support treatment planning. The imaging required depends on the individual clinical assessment and the requirements of the treating team and insurer. Colour Doppler assesses uterine artery vascularity.

3

Pre-Procedure Blood Tests & Safety Screening

Full blood count (to grade anaemia), renal function tests (for contrast safety), coagulation profile, and blood group are completed. Any blood-thinning medications are reviewed. Fasting instructions (6–8 hours) and pre-admission guidance are provided. Insurance pre-authorisation documents are prepared at this stage.

4

Admission & Preparation (2 Hours Before)

Arrive at Citi Vascular Hospital, KPHB. IV access is placed, vital signs checked, imaging reviewed, and consent is completed. A light sedative is administered for comfort. Local anaesthetic cream is applied to the wrist (radial) or groin (femoral) access site. The Cath Lab team prepares the procedure room.

5

UFE/UAE Procedure Under Fluoroscopy (45–90 Minutes)

During UFE, a catheter is introduced through an artery, usually at the wrist or groin, and guided under fluoroscopy to the uterine arteries. Embolic material is delivered to reduce blood flow to the fibroids. The access route, embolic material, anaesthesia or sedation, and procedural details depend on the clinical plan. The procedure aims to treat fibroids while preserving the uterus, but risks and effects on surrounding tissues should be discussed beforehand.

6

Post-Procedure Recovery in Hospital (4–6 Hours)

You rest in a monitored recovery bay. Mild to moderate uterine cramping — similar to strong period pain — is expected and managed with IV pain relief. Vital signs, access site, and urine output are monitored. Walking is encouraged within 2–4 hours. Pain and discomfort after UFE vary; a pain-management plan is provided according to individual needs.

7

Discharge & Home Recovery Instructions (Within 24 Hours)

Discharge timing and follow-up arrangements depend on recovery and the treating team's assessment. Medicines, including antibiotics when clinically indicated, and activity instructions should be provided according to individual needs. Mention a 48-hour follow-up call or messaging service only if the hospital consistently offers it.

8

Fibroid Shrinkage & Long-Term Symptom Relief (3–6 Months)

After UFE, fibroids may shrink over several months, and symptoms such as heavy bleeding or pelvic pressure may improve. The degree and timing of improvement vary. Follow-up assessment helps evaluate treatment response.A follow-up MRI or ultrasound at 3–6 months confirms fibroid size reduction and documents clinical outcomes.

Time After UFE

What to Expect

Dos & Don'ts

Day 0 — Procedure Day

Mild cramping managed with IV medication. Discharge within 24 hours in most cases.

✅ Walk short distances. ❌ No driving same day.

Days 1–3

Cramping, fatigue, nausea and a low-grade fever can occur after UFE as part of post-embolisation syndrome. However, fever or worsening symptoms may also indicate a complication and should be assessed when appropriate.

✅ Oral pain meds. ✅ Stay hydrated. ❌ No heavy lifting.

Days 3–5

Symptoms often begin to improve over time, but the pace of recovery differs between patients. Increase activity according to symptoms and the clinician's advice. Appetite improves.

✅ Short walks. ✅ Light cooking. ❌ No gym / swimming yet.

Week 2

Some patients experience spotting or vaginal discharge after UFE. Report heavy bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, fever or worsening pain to the treating clinician.

✅ Office work. ✅ Short drives. ❌ No strenuous exercise.

Weeks 3–4

Full daily activities resumed. First menstrual cycle post-UFE may be different — lighter or slightly heavier. Both are normal.

✅ Full activity. ✅ 4–6 week follow-up appointment.

Month 1–3

Progressive fibroid shrinkage underway. Bleeding lightens with each menstrual cycle. Pelvic pressure reduces steadily.

✅ Ultrasound follow-up at 3 months. ✅ Report any fever > 38.5°C.

Month 3–6

Follow-up imaging may show a reduction in fibroid volume, and symptoms may improve over several months. Include specific outcome percentages only when supported by a reliable, cited clinical source that matches the stated patient group and timeframe.

✅ MRI/USG confirms shrinkage. ✅ Discuss fertility if relevant.

Beyond 6 Months

Fibroids may remain smaller after UFE, but outcomes vary and symptoms can recur or further treatment may be needed. Long-term follow-up should be based on clinical advice.

✅ Annual follow-up recommended. Report any new symptoms.

Common Side Effects

Rare Risks

Cramping

Infection

Mild fever

Contrast allergy

Fatigue

Non-target embolization

Nausea

Premature ovarian failure (rare)

❌ Common Myth

✅ Clinical Fact

Source / Context

UFE removes the uterus

UFE is intended to treat fibroids while preserving the uterus; it does not involve planned removal of the uterus. Individual outcomes and complications should be discussed with the treating specialist.

SIR / RSNA Guidelines

UFE is a major surgery

UFE is minimally invasive — 2mm puncture, no cuts, no stitches

Interventional Radiology Standard of Care

Recovery takes months

The time needed to resume routine activities varies by patient. Some return to light activities within several days, while others need longer.

Clinical outcome data — Citi Vascular, KPHB

Large fibroids always need surgery

Some large fibroids can be treated with UFE. Size alone does not determine suitability; imaging findings, fibroid characteristics and clinical assessment are important.

CIRSE / SIR Fibroid Guidelines 2023

UFE means you cannot get pregnant

UFE preserves the uterus; pregnancy is possible after treatment

Multiple case series; discuss individually

UFE is very painful

Performed under sedation; mild post-procedure cramping is manageable

Patient-reported outcome studies

UFE doesn't work for multiple fibroids

UFE treats ALL fibroids simultaneously in a single procedure

UFE's primary advantage over myomectomy

UFE is not covered by insurance

Many insurers cover UFE when medically indicated (heavy bleeding, anaemia)

Insurance coordination available at Citi Vascular

Outcome

Success Rate

Heavy bleeding reduction

85–95%

Pelvic pressure relief

80–90%

Fibroid shrinkage

40–60%

Avoid hysterectomy

High success

Measure

Before UFE

After UFE (3 Months)

Menstrual bleeding

Hevy, flooding — changing pads every 1–2 hours

Significantly lighter, manageable

Haemoglobin / Anaemia

Low — severe fatigue and dizziness

Normalised — energy restored

Fibroid presence

Multiple large fibroids confirmed on MRI

Fibroids completely resolved at 3-month scan

Pelvic pressure

Daily discomfort, abdominal bloating

Fully resolved

Work impact

Missed work frequently, energy very low

Returned to office within 1 week of UFE

Patient satisfaction

Anxious, seeking surgery-free solution

"Fibroids significantly reduced. Heartfelt thanks to Dr. Shailesh sir."

Cost Component

Approximate Cost

MRI / Ultrasound

₹8,000 – ₹18,000

Blood Tests

₹2,500 – ₹5,000

UAE/UFE Procedure

₹90,000 – ₹1,80,000

Hospital Stay

₹8,000 – ₹15,000

Medications

₹3,000 – ₹8,000

Follow-up Imaging

₹8,000 – ₹15,000

Total Cost Comparison — Hyderabad 2026

UFE/UAE

Myomectomy

Hysterectomy

Estimated Total Cost

₹1,20,000 – ₹3,50,000

₹1,00,000 – ₹2,20,000

₹1,00,000 – ₹2,50,000

Hospital Stay Duration

1 day

3–5 days

5–7 days

Days Off Work (Cost to Patient)

3–5 days

2–4 weeks

6–8 weeks

Risk of Re-treatment

Low (< 20% at 5 yrs)

~10–25% recurrence

Zero (uterus removed)

Overall Value

Best: Fast + effective + preserves uterus

Good for single fibroid + fertility

Last resort — permanent

Insurance Type

UFE/UAE Coverage

Documents Typically Required

Corporate Group Mediclaim

Usually Yes

Ultrasound/MRI report, doctor recommendation, pre-auth form

Individual Health Insurance

Often Yes (check policy)

MRI / USG report, case summary, prescription, hospitalisation letter

Govt Schemes (CGHS / EHS)

Varies by scheme

Referral letter + imaging reports + specialist recommendation

Ayushman Bharat / PMJAY

Check empanelment

BIS card + referral + diagnosis confirmation

Cashless / TPA Claim/ Reimbursement

Available at Citi Vascular

Pre-authorisation letter from insurer + MRI + admission letter

Credential/Feature

Detail

Doctor

Dr. Shaileshkumar Garge

Qualifications

MBBS | MD (Mumbai) | DNB (Delhi) | FRCR (UK) | FNVIR (CMC Vellore) | EBIR (Spain/Europe)

Role

Director & Chief Vascular Physician | Senior Consultant Interventional Radiologist

Hospital

Citi Vascular Hospital, KPHB Colony, Road No. 1, Hyderabad, Telangana 500072

UFE/UAE Procedures

800+ UFE/UAE fibroid embolisation procedures performed

Total Vascular Procedures

12,000+ image-guided minimally invasive interventions

Specialisation

UFE, UAE, Varicose Veins, PAD, DVT, Pelvic Congestion Syndrome, Vascular Malformations

Technology

Dedicated Cath Lab | Real-time Fluoroscopy | Colour Doppler | High-resolution MRI Planning

Pricing Policy

Transparent pricing — all costs (imaging, procedure, medication, follow-up) discussed before treatment. No hidden charges.

Serving

KPHB, Kukatpally, Miyapur, Hitech City, Ameerpet, Secunderabad, Hyderabad & Telangana

Hospital

Contact

Location

Citi Vascular Hospital

+91-73375 83901

KPHB Colony, Road No. 1, Hyderabad, Telangana 500072

Appointments

Mon–Sat, 9 AM–6 PM

Same-day consultations available | Free parking | Walk-ins welcome

Website

citivascularcentre.com

Online appointment booking + WhatsApp consultation available

Q1: Can fibroids be treated without surgery in Hyderabad?

UFE/UAE is a minimally invasive treatment option for selected patients with uterine fibroids. A catheter is guided through an artery, usually at the wrist or groin, and embolic material is used to reduce blood flow to the fibroids. Fibroid size and symptoms may improve over several months. Anaesthesia, recovery and suitability vary by patient, and future pregnancy plans should be discussed with a specialist.

Q2: How long is recovery after non-surgical fibroid treatment (UFE)?

Recovery after UFE varies, and some patients resume light activities within several days. The time needed to return to work and the degree of fibroid shrinkage differ between patients. Follow-up imaging may be recommended at a time determined by the treating clinician. Comparisons with surgical recovery should be supported by reliable evidence.