Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) Cost in Germany

The cost of uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) in Germany typically ranges from $2,500 to $22,000 USD, depending on the hospital, city, and type of procedure.

Uterine fibroid embolisation (UFE) blocks the blood supply to fibroids through a catheter, making them shrink without surgery. It is also called uterine artery embolisation. In Germany, the total depends on:

• Imaging: MRI or ultrasound before the procedure.
• Embolisation materials: particles used to block the arteries.
• Hospital stay: usually one night.
• Pain relief: cramping is common in the first hours.

The British Society of Interventional Radiology explains that a catheter is passed through an artery in the groin, and small particles are released to block the arteries supplying the fibroids. Local anaesthetic and sedation are used.

Most women stay overnight. Cramping is usually worst in the first 12 hours.

Fibroids typically shrink to about half their size by one year. Most women need 1 to 2 weeks off work.

Infection occurs in about 1 in 200, rarely needing hysterectomy. Early menopause occurs in 2 to 4%, mostly in women aged 45 or over. If future pregnancy is important, this should be discussed, as surgery may be preferred.

International patients are usually treated in Germany as self-paying patients: the hospital reviews the medical reports, sends a cost estimate and asks for an advance payment before admission, then settles the final bill after discharge.

Inpatient hospital care in Germany is billed under the German DRG system, which depends on the main diagnosis, other diagnoses and the procedures carried out, so the final amount is known only after the stay.

Patients insured in another EU country need an S2 form from their own insurer for planned treatment in Germany, as the EHIC is intended for unplanned care.