Uterine Fibroid Embolisation Success Rates in South Africa

Uterine fibroid embolisation (UFE), also known as uterine artery embolisation (UAE), is a minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment for symptomatic uterine fibroids. This procedure involves blocking the blood supply to fibroids, causing them to shrink and alleviating symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure on surrounding organs. In South Africa, UFE has gained significant traction as an non-invasive fibroid treatment alternative to traditional surgical options like hysterectomy or myomectomy, offering women a less invasive approach with shorter recovery times and preserved uterine function.

As awareness of UFE grows, so does interest in its success rates, particularly in the South African context. This blog explores the efficacy, safety, and patient outcomes of UFE in South Africa, drawing on local studies and clinical data to provide a comprehensive overview. If you’re wondering, “What are the success rates of UFE in South Africa?” this article aims to provide clear, evidence-based answers to guide your decision-making.

Growing Availability of UFE in South Africa

UFE is becoming increasingly accessible across South Africa, moving beyond major urban hospitals to specialised clinics in cities like Cape Town, Pretoria, Johannesburg, and even Walvis Bay, Namibia. This expansion reflects growing confidence in the procedure’s effectiveness and its ability to address a common health issue affecting many women, particularly those of African descent, who are more likely to develop fibroids and experience severe symptoms.

The procedure is performed by interventional radiologists in hospital settings equipped with advanced imaging technology, such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound, ensuring precise catheter placement. Most major medical funders in South Africa cover UFE, making it a viable option for a broader population. The transradial approach, which involves accessing the uterine arteries through a small incision in the wrist, is gaining popularity due to its comfort and reduced risk of complications compared to the traditional femoral artery approach.

You may be interested in: How Safe Is Uterine Fibroid Embolisation?

Success Rates of UFE in South Africa

Clinical Outcomes

South African studies provide robust evidence of UFE’s efficacy. A retrospective study of 82 women conducted at a tertiary hospital reported a technical success rate of 100%, with bilateral uterine artery embolisation achieved in all cases. Approximately 80% of patients reported complete satisfaction with their outcomes, while 12% were partially satisfied, and 7% were not satisfied. The study noted significant symptom relief, with 95% of women experiencing reduced heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain.

Another prospective study at Steve Biko Academic Hospital involving 51 women found a mean uterine volume reduction of 38% and a dominant fibroid volume reduction of 58% after 43.6 months of follow-up. These reductions were statistically significant (p=0.001), and improvements in haemoglobin levels were also observed, indicating effective management of anaemia caused by heavy bleeding.

Fibroid Shrinkage and Symptom Relief

Local data indicates that fibroids typically shrink by 50–60% within six to eight months post-UFE, with some fibroids disappearing entirely. This shrinkage correlates with significant symptom relief, enabling women to resume daily activities with minimal disruption. For instance, patients often report reduced menstrual bleeding within three months, with some experiencing cycles shortened from 10 days to 3–4 days.

Reintervention and Recurrence Rates

Reintervention rates in South Africa are low. In the aforementioned study of 82 women, only two patients (2.4%) required repeat embolisation due to persistent menorrhagia, and one patient experienced fibroid recurrence four years post-procedure, managed with medical therapy rather than surgery. No patients required interval myomectomies, and hysterectomy was rare, underscoring UFE’s long-term efficacy. In the Steve Biko study, reintervention (including hysterectomy or gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogue use) was needed in 35% of cases, but this higher rate may reflect a more diverse patient population or longer follow-up period.

You may be interested in this study: Uterine Artery Embolisation: Effective 5-Year Outcomes for Symptomatic Fibroids

Patient Satisfaction

Patient satisfaction is a critical measure of success. The 80% complete satisfaction rate reported in South African studies aligns with international findings, where 85–90% of women experience significant symptom improvement. The ability to avoid major surgery, coupled with quick recovery times (often one night in hospital and return to normal activities within a week), contributes to high satisfaction levels. Additionally, 90% of patients in one study would recommend UFE to others, reflecting confidence in the procedure.

Safety and Complications

UFE is associated with a low risk of serious complications in South Africa. Minor complications, such as post-embolisation syndrome (fever, pain, or nausea), were reported in 19% of patients in the Steve Biko study, but these were manageable with medication like acetaminophen. No major complications, such as sepsis, were reported in the larger retrospective study. The transradial approach further reduces risks like pelvic or groin haemorrhage, enhancing patient comfort.

Serious side effects, such as infection (endomyometritis) or unintended embolisation of other organs, are rare. However, patients over 50 may face a higher risk of ovarian damage, potentially affecting menstrual cycles, though this is uncommon in younger women. The procedure’s safety profile supports its use as a first-line treatment for women seeking to preserve their uterus.

Comparison with International Standards

South Africa’s UFE success rates are comparable to global benchmarks. For example, Johns Hopkins Medicine reports that 90% of UFE patients experience significant symptom improvement, with minimal recovery time and rare fibroid recurrence. The technical success rate of 98% with the transradial approach in South Africa aligns with advanced international practices, reflecting the skill of local interventional radiologists and access to modern technology.

However, South African studies highlight unique considerations, such as the higher prevalence and severity of fibroids among African women, which may influence treatment outcomes. The cultural stigma surrounding hysterectomy in some communities further underscores UFE’s importance as a uterus-preserving option.

Recovery and Aftercare

Post-UFE recovery is relatively swift. Patients may experience cramping similar to menstrual pain for a few days as fibroids begin to shrink, but this is manageable with standard pain relief. Most women return home the same day or after an overnight hospital stay and resume light activities within days, with full recovery typically within a week.

South African hospitals adhere to global best practices for follow-up care, including regular check-ins and imaging (e.g., MRI or ultrasound) to monitor fibroid shrinkage and symptom improvement. These protocols contribute to sustained success rates, with many women noticing significant improvements within two months.

Why UFE Success Rates Matter

High UFE success rates in South Africa offer women a reliable, minimally invasive alternative to surgery, addressing symptoms that significantly impact quality of life, such as heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and infertility. The procedure’s ability to preserve the uterus is particularly valuable for women who wish to maintain fertility, with studies reporting successful pregnancies post-UFE, though fertility outcomes require further research.

The low complication rates, quick recovery, and high patient satisfaction make UFE an attractive option for women seeking effective care without the risks and downtime of hysterectomy or myomectomy. For many, understanding “what are the success rates of UFE in South Africa” provides the confidence needed to choose this treatment over more invasive alternatives.

Considerations for UFE Candidates

Not all women are ideal candidates for UFE. Ideal candidates include those with symptomatic fibroids who wish to avoid surgery and preserve their uterus. Pre-procedure evaluations, including a gynecologic exam, Pap smear, endometrial biopsy (if indicated), and imaging, are essential to confirm suitability. Contraindications include pregnancy, active pelvic infections, certain cancers, or severe renal insufficiency. Women with extremely large fibroids or those prioritising fertility preservation should discuss risks with their provider, as outcomes may vary.

The Future of UFE in South Africa

The increasing availability of UFE across South Africa, coupled with high success rates, positions it as a transformative option for women’s health. As awareness grows and more healthcare providers offer UFE, women are gaining access to a treatment that is both effective and aligned with their preferences for minimally invasive care. Ongoing research and training will likely further enhance outcomes, ensuring UFE remains a cornerstone of fibroid management.

Take the Next Step

If you’re considering UFE and want to benefit from South Africa’s high success rates, consulting a specialised clinic is the next step. Minima Radiology, a leader in interventional radiology, offers personalised, evidence-based care tailored to your needs. Contact Minima Radiology at 087 055 0587 or info@minimaradiology.com to explore how UFE can help you reclaim a life free from fibroid symptoms with confidence and minimal disruption.