What are Some of the Complications of UAE?

When the fibroid is attached to the uterus by a small stalk (pedunculated), the success rate is adversely affected.

Moreover, pedunculated fibroids located in the cavity of the uterus (submucosal fibroids), do not respond well to UAE. These fibroids may become detached after embolization, and difficulty is usually experienced in passing or expelling the fibroids.

Patients who have been treated with Lupron (leuprolide) may also have problems with UAE. Lupron may cause spasms of the blood vessels, which would lead to difficulty in passing a catheter through the blood vessel.