MEET THE SPECIALISTS TO THE SPECIALISTS
Michael Cumming, MD
Dr. Cumming is a nationally recognized expert and is widely recognized for his skill in endovascular procedures and embolization techniques. Dr. Cumming's techniques have been presented to colleagues at the Global Embolization (GEST) meeting.
PETER BRETZMAN, MD
Dr. Bretzman has over 25 years of experience solving complex medical problems using minimally invasive imaging guided techniques. His focus is finding the most efficient solution for patients.
UNDERSTANDING UTERINE FIBROIDS
IS UFE AN ALTERNATIVE TO SURGERY?
Yes! UFE is an alternative to surgery and has been performed for over 20 years. UFE successfully eliminates or significantly improves fibroid-related symptoms in approximately 90% of women, and the recovery period is significantly shorter than surgical procedures.⁴ While no procedure is completely risk-free, complications from UFE are rare and most patients are back to normal activity in 1-2 weeks.
Dr. Cumming and Dr. Bretzman will partner with you and/or your existing care team (ex: primary care, OB-GYN) to determine if you’re a candidate for UFE.
HOW IS UFE PERFORMED AND AM I A CANDIDATE?
We often remind patients that if they are a candidate for a myomectomy or hysterectomy, then they are a candidate for UFE.
Intravenous sedation enables sleep during the procedure without general anesthesia. A catheter is inserted into an artery through a tiny pinhole via the groin or wrist, then guided via real-time X-rays to the specific artery supplying blood to the fibroids. Particles are injected through the catheter, blocking the blood supply to the fibroids and making them shrink. Once the embolization (particle injection) is complete, the catheter is gently removed.
HERE'S WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM YOUR VISIT:
- CONSULTATION: Symptom review and health history discussion.
- IMAGING: Ultrasound screening & MRI scan to accurately determine the specific location and size of fibroids.
- TREATMENT PLAN: A comprehensive review of all symptoms, exams and imaging enable Drs Cumming and Bretzman to provide definitive treatment recommendations. Ultimately, patients choose their preferred option.