Leading the Way in Vascular Excellence.
What Is UFE?
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a non-surgical, minimally invasive treatment for uterine fibroids. The procedure works by cutting off blood flow to fibroids, causing them to shrink over time. As a result, many women experience significant relief from painful and disruptive fibroid symptoms—while keeping their uterus intact.
Unlike major surgical procedures such as hysterectomy or myomectomy, UFE does not involve removal of the uterus and typically does not require a hospital stay.
How UFE Works
UFE is performed by a specially trained interventional radiologist using advanced imaging technology to precisely target fibroids. During the procedure, tiny particles are delivered through a catheter to block the blood vessels supplying the fibroids.
- Blocks blood flow to fibroids, causing them to shrink
- Performed using image-guided technology for precision
- Completed as an outpatient or same-day procedure
- Preserves the uterus and shortens recovery time
Most patients are able to return to normal daily activities within about one week.
Is UFE Right for You?
- Have fibroid symptoms that interfere with daily life
- Want to preserve your uterus
- Prefer to avoid surgery
- Are not a good candidate for surgery due to other medical conditions
- Need minimal time away from work, family, or caregiving responsibilities
- Do not consider pregnancy a top priority
Benefits of UFE
Uterine Fibroid Embolization offers a patient-centered alternative to surgery, delivering effective symptom relief with less risk and faster recovery.
- No Incisions: No surgical cuts, stitches, or visible scarring
- No Hospital Stay: Safely performed in an outpatient setting
- Treats All Fibroids: Addresses multiple fibroids in a single procedure
- High Success Rate: Over 90% of women experience symptom improvement
- Quick Recovery: Most patients resume normal activities within 7–10 days
UFE allows many women to reclaim their quality of life—without major surgery.
What to Expect During UFE
The UFE procedure typically takes about one hour, and patients are comfortably sedated throughout treatment. There are no large incisions and no surgical removal of the uterus.
During the procedure:
- A tiny access point is made in the left wrist
- A small catheter is guided into an artery
- Advanced X-ray imaging locates fibroid blood supply
- Microscopic particles are released to block blood flow
- Fibroids gradually shrink over time
After the procedure, patients are closely monitored with follow-up visits at one week, one month, and four months to ensure proper healing and symptom improvement.
From start to finish, UFE is designed to be efficient, precise, and focused on getting you back to your life as quickly as possible.
About Dr. Suzanne Slonim
Dr. Suzanne Slonim is a nationally recognized interventional radiologist and one of the most experienced uterine fibroid specialists in the country. She is the founder and medical director of the Fibroid Institute and has dedicated her career to helping women find relief from fibroids without major surgery.
Her approach centers on minimally invasive, uterus-preserving treatment—most notably Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)—combined with compassionate, patient-focused care.
Training and Credentials
Dr. Slonim is board-certified in both Diagnostic Radiology and Vascular & Interventional Radiology. She completed her medical education at George Washington University School of Medicine, followed by advanced training at UCLA and Stanford University.
During her time at Stanford, she served on faculty, conducted research, and published in peer-reviewed medical journals, laying the foundation for her leadership in interventional radiology.
Experience and Leadership
With decades of experience, Dr. Slonim has performed tens of thousands of interventional procedures and is regarded as a national authority on UFE. She has trained physicians across the country, lectured at national conferences, and contributed extensively to medical literature.
She is a Fellow of both the Society of Interventional Radiology and the American College of Radiology—honors that reflect her expertise, leadership, and commitment to advancing care.
Recognition and Publications
Dr. Slonim has been repeatedly recognized as a Texas Super Doctor and named among
D Magazine’s Best Doctors in Dallas. She is also the author of the patient-focused book
Pain-Free Periods: Banish Menstrual Misery, Fight Fibroids, and Get Your Life Back, which
educates women about non-surgical fibroid treatment options.
Patient-Centered Philosophy
Dr. Slonim approaches every patient with empathy, respect, and individualized attention. She believes women deserve clear education, honest options, and expert care—without pressure toward unnecessary surgery.
Her mission through the Fibroid Institute is to expand awareness of minimally invasive fibroid treatment and help women reclaim their health, comfort, and quality of life.

