Dr Alex Tang Ah Lak introduces a less invasive way to treat fibroids and adenomyosis, uterine artery embolization (UAE), which offers women an alternative to surgery with fewer risks and a faster recovery.
WORDS LIM TECK CHOON
 FEATURED EXPERTDR ALEX TANG AH LAK Consultant Vascular and Interventional Radiologist Subang Jaya Medical Centre |
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the uterus, while adenomyosis occurs when the uterine lining grows into the muscle wall.
Both conditions can cause heavy periods, severe cramps, bloating, and fertility issues that significantly impacting daily life.
UTERINE ARTERY EMBOLIZATION
- Uterine artery embolization (UAE) is a minimally invasive procedure.
- Dr Alex explains that UAE blocks the blood supply to fibroids or affected tissue, causing them to shrink.
How It Works
- The patient is first lightly sedated.
- Dr Alex reveals that a small incision is made in the groin or wrist.
- “Through this incision, a tiny catheter is inserted into the uterine arteries,” he says, adding that this insertion is done under the guidance of a form of X-ray called fluoroscopy.
- Tiny medical plastic beads or embolic agents are then delivered via the catheter to block the arteries that are supplying blood to the fibroids.
- “These agents act as a targeted treatment, addressing the fibroids without affecting the surrounding tissues,” explains Dr Alex Tang.
- Because these fibroids no longer receive regular blood supply, they will shrink over time.
Why Choose UAE over Surgery?
Compared to traditional treatments like hysterectomy or myomectomy, UAE offers:
- No major surgery. There is no large incisions or removal of the uterus.
- Faster recovery. Most patients resume normal activities in a week or two.
- Less risk. Lower chances of infection, blood loss, or complications.
- Preserves the uterus, a key consideration for those considering future pregnancies.
However, UAE Isn’t for Everyone!
- Some women may still need surgery if they have very large fibroids.
- Fertility outcomes can vary from one woman that has undergone UAE from another.
Recurrence
- Fibroids may occasionally come back.
- The recurrence rate after UAE is 10-15%, significantly lower than the 20-30% recurrence rate after surgery.
| For another minimally invasive treatment of adenomyosis and fibroids, join Dr Selva S as he talks about high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU). |
| This article is part of our series on women’s health. |
