Radiation Injury

Radiation Injury

X-rays are used during the procedure to guide the passage of the catheter into the uterine arteries and the injection of the particles during embolization. A radiation burn to the skin is a theoretical risk during a very prolonged UFE procedure, but this occurrence has not been reported to date. The amount of radiation that the ovaries receive is approximately 2 to 20 Rads, which varies substantially depending on the anatomy, angiographic equipment, and operator experience. However, the amount of radiation used (even at the higher range of exposures) is not expected to affect fertility, cause cancer, or induce genetic mutations should pregnancy occur after UFE.