What Is I.R.—
Interventional radiology (I.R.) is a medical specialty that uses image-guided procedures to diagnose and treat conditions with precision—without the need for open surgery. In fibroid care, I.R. makes it possible to treat uterine fibroids through a minimally invasive procedure called Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE). This technique offers effective symptom relief while preserving the uterus, reducing downtime, and avoiding the risks of more invasive surgical options.
Treatment Options
Watch our animated video to see exactly how UFE targets fibroids while preserving your uterus and reducing symptoms.
Compare Your Options
Use our easy chart to compare UFE with surgical options like hysterectomy or myomectomy. Understand your choices and see how UFE compares in terms of recovery time, invasiveness, and impact on fertility.
| Treatment |
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)
|
Hysterectomy | Myomectomy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Procedure Type |
Minimally invasive (no incisions)
|
Surgical removal of the uterus | Surgical removal of fibroids |
| Uterus Preservation |
Uterus remains intact
|
Uterus is removed | Uterus is preserved |
| Hospital Stay |
None – outpatient procedure
|
Yes – usually requires 1–2 nights | Yes – typically an inpatient surgery |
| Recovery Time |
3–7 days
|
4–6 weeks | 4–6 weeks |
| Scarring |
No visible scars
|
Abdominal or vaginal scarring possible | Abdominal scarring likely |
| Effect on Fertility |
May preserve fertility (case-dependent)
|
Ends fertility | May preserve fertility (case-dependent) |
| Hormone Use Required |
No
|
No (though some use HRT post-op) | Sometimes used pre-surgery |
| Risk of Fibroid Return |
Low recurrence
|
No recurrence (uterus removed) | Possible recurrence |
About Us
North Star Fibroid Clinic doctors and staff are knowledgeable, experienced and passionate about making this non-surgical option available to women, conveniently performed in our state-of-the-art outpatient procedure center.
If you are suffering from uterine fibroids, you can be assured that we’ll present you with the information you need to make an informed decision about which treatment is best for you.
Your Treatment Experience
Before Your Procedure
We begin with a personalized consultation to understand your symptoms, goals, and treatment preferences.
The Procedure
UFE is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure using a small catheter—no incisions, no general anesthesia, no hospital stay.
Recovery at Home
Most patients return home the same day and resume their normal routines within a few days, experiencing minimal discomfort.
Results Over Time
As fibroids shrink, you’ll experience lighter periods, reduced pressure and pain, and a noticeable boost in energy and comfort.
Ongoing Support
We stay connected after your procedure with follow-up care, educational resources, and answers to all your questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most women begin to experience improvements within a few weeks, with continued symptom relief as the fibroids shrink over several months.
UFE is typically done with moderate sedation and local numbing—no general anesthesia required.
UFE is highly effective for most fibroid types and sizes, but we’ll confirm eligibility through imaging and a detailed review of your case.
Not necessarily. While fertility after UFE is possible, it’s not guaranteed. We’ll talk through your family planning goals before recommending treatment.
We’ll give you a clear prep guide, including when to stop eating and which medications to adjust. Most prep is minimal and stress-free.
You may still be a candidate for UFE, especially if fibroids have returned or symptoms persist. We’ll assess your history and create a tailored plan.