July is Fibroid Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about a condition that affects millions of women and encourage conversations about the treatment options available.
At Vista Interventional Care Center (VICC), we know that no two women experience uterine fibroids the same way. That’s why we believe the best care comes from collaboration.
Our board-certified interventional radiologists work closely with gynecologists throughout East Tennessee to help women understand all of their treatment options—including Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), a minimally invasive alternative to surgery for many patients.
For us, collaborative care isn’t just a philosophy. It’s how we help women receive the right treatment at the right time.
Your Gynecologist Remains at the Center of Your Care
For many women, their gynecologist is one of their most trusted healthcare providers.
When fibroid symptoms begin affecting quality of life, your gynecologist may discuss several treatment options based on your symptoms, overall health, future pregnancy goals and personal preferences.
In some cases, that conversation includes a referral to an interventional radiologist to determine whether Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) may be an appropriate option.
At VICC, we view that referral as the beginning of a partnership—not a transfer of care.
Our role is to provide specialized expertise in minimally invasive treatments while working in coordination with your gynecologist throughout the evaluation and treatment process. Together, we help ensure every patient receives personalized recommendations based on her individual needs.
Why Team-Based Care Matters
Healthcare is strongest when specialists work together.
Because uterine fibroids can vary significantly in size, location, symptoms, and severity, treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. A collaborative approach allows women to benefit from the expertise of multiple physicians while remaining confident that every appropriate option has been considered.
That coordinated approach offers several advantages, including:
- A comprehensive evaluation of available treatment options
- Care that reflects each woman’s symptoms and goals
- Clear communication between physicians
- Continuity throughout diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up
- Confidence that decisions are made with the patient’s best interests at the center
For many women, knowing there is a team working together on their behalf provides peace of mind during an important healthcare decision.
Understanding Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)
Many women are surprised to learn that surgery isn’t the only treatment available for uterine fibroids.
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive procedure performed by an interventional radiologist. Using image guidance, tiny particles are delivered through a catheter to block the blood supply feeding the fibroids. Without that blood flow, fibroids gradually shrink, often leading to significant symptom relief.
For appropriately selected patients, UFE may offer:
- No major surgical incision
- Preservation of the uterus
- A shorter recovery than many traditional surgical procedures
- Effective relief from fibroid-related symptoms
Not every woman is a candidate for UFE, which is why collaboration between your gynecologist and an interventional radiologist is so important in determining the most appropriate treatment plan.
Fibroid Awareness Month Is About More Than Awareness
Fibroid Awareness Month is about helping women understand they have choices.
If you’ve been living with heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure, frequent urination, or other symptoms caused by uterine fibroids, now is a great time to have a conversation with your gynecologist about the treatment options available.
When appropriate, your physician may recommend meeting with our team to learn whether Uterine Fibroid Embolization could be part of your care plan.
Our goal isn’t simply to perform a procedure.
Our goal is to partner with your healthcare team to help you make informed decisions and find the treatment that’s right for you.
Learn More About Your Options
If uterine fibroids are affecting your quality of life, we’re here to help.
Working alongside your gynecologist, our experienced interventional radiologists provide advanced, minimally invasive treatment options designed to help women return to the activities they enjoy.
Learn more about Uterine Fibroid Embolization or request a consultation with Vista Interventional Care Center today.