Women's Health | Central Oregon Radiology Associates

Women’s Health

Through technological advancements, our interventional radiologists provide the latest in minimally invasive image-guided procedures to women suffering from pelvic and vein disorders. We offer sophisticated non-surgical diagnosis and treatment for conditions such as uterine fibroids, chronic pelvic pain, infertility, varicose veins, and pelvic floor dysfunction. For our patients, that means less pain and a shorter recovery compared with traditional surgery.

Common conditions include:

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)

Uterine fibroids are benign uterine tumors. The exact cause is unknown. They often range in size. They may shrink without treatment, or grow rapidly with no clear explanation. Interventional radiologists offer Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) as a minimally-invasive solution to treat uterine fibroids. During Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), an interventional radiologist deposits tiny particles through a catheter into the arteries supplying the uterus to cut off blood supply to the fibroids. Once deprived of oxygenated blood, the fibroids begin to soften and shrink.

Ovarian Vein Embolization (OVE)

Ovarian Vein Embolization is an innovative treatment for Pelvic Congestion Syndrome (PCS). PCS is a chronic condition caused by varicose veins in the pelvis. The most notable symptom is pain, especially with prolonged sitting or standing. To relieve that chronic pain, Interventional radiologists offer Ovarian Vein Embolization. During this minimally invasive treatment an image-guided catheter is used to close off the affected veins so they can no longer become engorged with blood. Because embolization is less invasive than surgery, most women recover completely within 1-2 days.

Postpartum Hemorrhage Embolization

Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH) refers to abnormal bleeding from the genital tract after birth. PPH occurs after up to 5% of healthy births, and has many potential causes. These include uterine atony, tears in the cervix or vaginal tissue, tearing in the uterus, blood clotting disorders, or problems with the placenta. Historically, removal of the uterus has been the only way to control bleeding and stop PPH. Luckily, Interventional Radiology has given us many more options. Foremost among these is Postpartum Hemorrhage Embolization. During this procedure, an image-guided catheter is inserted into the femoral artery, navigating into the arteries supplying blood to the uterus. Small particles are injected to stop the blood flow to the uterus, and stop the bleeding. The minimally invasive procedure does not impact fertility, and does not require general anesthesia.