Uterine fibroids are a common—but often misunderstood—women’s health condition affecting millions of women across Knoxville and East Tennessee. While fibroids are noncancerous, they can significantly impact daily life. The good news is that many women in our region now have access to minimally invasive, outpatient treatment options that do not require major surgery or extended hospital stays.

At Vista Interventional Care Center (VICC) in Knoxville, TN, we believe education empowers women to make informed decisions about their health. Below is an overview of uterine fibroids, common symptoms, and how they can be treated safely and effectively in an outpatient setting.

What Are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids—also called leiomyomas—are benign growths that develop in or around the uterus. They vary in size and number and may be located:

• Within the uterine wall (intramural)

•  On the outer surface of the uterus (subserosa)

• Inside the uterine cavity (submucosal)

Fibroids are especially common in women between the ages of 30 and 50.

Common Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids

Some women experience no symptoms, while others may notice symptoms that interfere with daily life, including:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding

• Pelvic pain or pressure

• Abdominal bloating or fullness

• Frequent urination

• Constipation

• Pain during intercourse

• Fatigue or anemia due to blood loss

Women experiencing these symptoms in Knoxville or surrounding East Tennessee communities should consider evaluation by a specialist.

Outpatient Treatment Options in Knoxville

Not all fibroids require treatment. When symptoms affect quality of life, uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a highly effective, non-surgical option.

UFE is performed by an interventional radiologist and works by blocking blood flow to fibroids, causing them to shrink over time while preserving healthy uterine tissue.

At Vista Interventional Care Center, UFE is performed in a comfortable outpatient environment using advanced image guidance. Most patients return home the same day and resume normal activities much sooner than with traditional surgery.

Why Choose an Outpatient Interventional Care Center?

Outpatient treatment at VICC offers several advantages:

• No major surgical incisions

• Uterus-sparing treatment option

• Shorter recovery time

• Lower infection risk compared to hospital surgery

• Same-day discharge

• Specialized care close to home in East Tennessee

Many women are surprised to learn they have effective options beyond hysterectomy—and that these treatments are available locally.

When Should You Talk to a Specialist?

If fibroid symptoms are interfering with your daily life, a consultation with an interventional radiologist can help determine whether outpatient treatment is right for you.