The Health Services Authority (HSA) has increased the options for women in Cayman combatting fibroids with the introduction of a highly effective, minimally invasive procedure that is only available on island at the Cayman Islands Hospital. Previously, for this procedure, women had to travel overseas,” said HSA Interventional Radiologist, Dr Vladimir Sloboda.
“This minimally invasive alternative to treat noncancerous tumors in the uterus called uterine fibroids is known as Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE). Minimally invasive treatment options provide alternatives to surgical treatment of fibroids with lower complication rates, quicker recovery times, preservation of the uterus and option to use local anesthesia instead of general anesthesia,” added Dr. Sloboda.
In comparison to surgical options such as hysterectomy or myomectomy, uterine fibroid embolization is the least invasive, most cost effective, low risk alternative with the shortest recovery time.
Three local patients have already undergone this procedure. Among them is a 49-year-old Caymanian patient who is so overwhelmed with her results that she wants to share with others who may be suffering with uterine fibroids; a medical condition that affects approximately 40 per cent of women by the age of 35, increasing to 80 per cent by the age of 50. Despite the prevalence of uterine fibroids only 10% – 20% of women will require any medical intervention.
The patient, who prefers her name not be disclosed, has been struggling with issues relating to fibroids for several years, but her condition worsened over the last two years with significant effect on her physically, emotionally and professionally as her painful symptoms and anemia often resulted in frequent absences from work.
Uterine fibroid embolization is a low risk procedure to shrink uterine fibroids by blocking off their blood supply. This is done by injecting very small non-absorbable particles into the arteries that supply the fibroids via a thin, flexible tube called catheter. Blocking off the blood supply causes fibroids to shrink.
“The other options were unfeasible for me. Therefore, I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to have this procedure, with minimal recovery time and cost, done on islands under the expertise of Dr Sloboda. It has completely changed my life,” said the patient.
Persons interested in this service may speak with their general practitioner or obstetrician-gynecologist to find out more information and/or to obtain a referral to see Dr Sloboda at the Cayman Islands Health Services Authority.
