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

45–90 minutes

Hospital Stay

Same day / overnight (usually within 24 hours)

Recovery Time

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

Scarring

None — only a tiny 2mm wrist or groin puncture

Fibroid Shrinkage

40–70% volume reduction on MRI at 6 months

Success Rate

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

Cost in Hyderabad (2026)

₹80,000 – ₹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

Fibroids reduce in size by 40–60%

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

Do you want same-day discharge and return to work within 3–5 days?

✅ UFE/UAE is likely your best option

Laparoscopic myomectomy may suit you

Symptom / Condition

UFE Suitable?

Clinical Explanation

Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia)

✅ Yes

Most common indication — bleeding reduces within 2–3 cycles

Multiple uterine fibroids

✅ Yes

UFE treats all fibroids simultaneously in a single procedure

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 office work in 3–5 days vs 4–8 weeks after surgery

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

3–5 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

₹80K – ₹3.5L

₹1L – ₹2L

₹80K – ₹1.6L

₹80K – ₹2L

Return to Work

3–5 days

2–3 weeks

4–6 weeks

6–8 weeks

Not sure if UFE is right for you?

Dr. Garge reviews your MRI/scan and advises the best option for you personally.

 +91-73375 83901

Check Your Insurance Coverage

Many plans cover UFE. We handle pre-authorisation at no extra cost.

 WhatsApp for Quick Reply

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 45–60 minute consultation.

2

Pelvic Imaging — Ultrasound + MRI Planning

A pelvic ultrasound is performed first to count fibroids and assess size. MRI pelvis (gold standard) is used for precise fibroid mapping — distinguishing fibroid type, location (submucosal, intramural, subserosal), and blood supply. This imaging is essential for UFE planning and insurance pre-authorisation. 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)

Dr. Garge inserts a 2mm catheter through the wrist or groin artery via a tiny puncture. Under live X-ray (fluoroscopy) guidance, the catheter is advanced into both uterine arteries. Embolic microspheres (calibrated polyvinyl alcohol beads) are precisely released to block blood supply to fibroids while fully preserving healthy uterine tissue. You are awake but relaxed throughout.

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. Most patients report the discomfort as very manageable.

7

Discharge & Home Recovery Instructions (Within 24 Hours)

Most patients are discharged the same day or the following morning with oral pain medications, antibiotics (if prescribed), dietary and activity advice, and a scheduled 4–6 week follow-up appointment. A 48-hour WhatsApp/call check-in is offered by Dr. Garge's team to monitor recovery.

8

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

With blood supply permanently blocked, fibroids shrink progressively over 3–6 months. Heavy menstrual bleeding typically reduces within 1–2 cycles. Pelvic pressure, urinary urgency, and pain improve steadily. 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, possible low-grade fever (post-embolisation syndrome — normal). Rest at home.

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

Days 3–5

Most women feel significantly better. Light household activities resume. Appetite improves.

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

Week 2

Near-normal routine in most cases. Some spotting or discharge is normal as fibroid tissue breaks down.

✅ 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

Significant fibroid volume reduction on imaging. 85–90% of women report major symptom improvement. Quality of life markedly better.

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

Beyond 6 Months

Fibroids remain shrunken long-term as blood supply is permanently blocked. Symptoms maintain improvement in majority of cases.

✅ 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 preserves the uterus completely — no uterus is removed

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

Most women return to routine activities within 3–5 days

Clinical outcome data — Citi Vascular, KPHB

Large fibroids always need surgery

Many large fibroids (> 5 cm) shrink effectively with UFE

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

40–70%

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 completely cleared. 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

15,000+ 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?

Yes. Many uterine fibroids — including large and multiple fibroids — can now be treated without surgery in Hyderabad using UFE/UAE (Uterine Fibroid Embolization). A tiny catheter inserted through the wrist or groin blocks blood supply to fibroids, causing them to shrink naturally over 3–6 months. No uterus removal, no major surgery, no general anaesthesia. Recovery takes just 3–5 days.

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

Most women return to light daily activities within 3–5 days after UFE. Office work is typically resumed by the end of the first week. Full fibroid shrinkage takes 3–6 months as blood supply remains permanently blocked. This is far faster than myomectomy recovery (4–6 weeks) or hysterectomy recovery (6–8 weeks). A 3-month follow-up ultrasound confirms fibroid reduction.

Q3: Is UFE (fibroid treatment without surgery) better than hysterectomy?

For most women who want to preserve their uterus, UFE is a safer and faster-recovery alternative to hysterectomy. UFE avoids general anaesthesia, major surgical cuts, and permanent uterus removal. Recovery is 3–5 days versus 6–8 weeks after hysterectomy. Over 80% of UFE patients avoid hysterectomy at 5 years. Hysterectomy remains appropriate only for very severe cases where all options have been exhausted.

Q4: Is non-surgical fibroid treatment (UFE) painful?

UFE is performed under local anaesthesia with conscious sedation, so you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. After UFE, mild to moderate uterine cramping — similar to strong period pain — may occur for 12–48 hours and is managed with prescribed oral pain medications. This discomfort is significantly less than post-surgical pain after open fibroid surgery. Most patients describe recovery as very manageable.

Q5: Can multiple fibroids be treated together without surgery?

Yes. One of UFE's biggest advantages over myomectomy is that it treats ALL uterine fibroids simultaneously in a single 45–90 minute procedure — regardless of the number or size. Myomectomy may not remove all fibroids in every case. This makes UFE the preferred non-surgical option for women with multiple fibroids, avoiding repeat procedures. Outcomes are confirmed by MRI follow-up at 3–6 months.

Q6: What is the cost of fibroid treatment without surgery in Hyderabad in 2026?

Non-surgical UFE/UAE fibroid treatment in Hyderabad costs approximately ₹1,20,000–₹3,50,000 in 2026, including MRI imaging (₹8,000–₹18,000), UFE procedure (₹90,000–₹1,80,000), hospital stay, medications, and follow-up imaging. Costs vary by fibroid size, number, imaging requirements, and specialist expertise. At Citi Vascular Hospital, KPHB, all costs are discussed transparently before treatment with no hidden charges.