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Published on: January 17, 2019
Selective uterine artery embolization as primary treatment for symptomatic leiomyomata uteri
F L Hutchins1, R Worthington-Kirsch, R P Berkowitz
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
Study Objective:
To analyze initial experience with uterine artery embolization for treatment of symptomatic leiomyomata.
Design:
Prospective, longitudinal study (Canadian Task Force classification II-2).
Setting:
Private practice, university-affiliated hospital.
Patients:
Three hundred five women (age 26-52 yrs).
Interventions:
Uterine artery embolization, performed over 2 years by a single radiologist working in collaboration with a single gynecology practice.
Measurements And Main Results:
Embolization was technically successful in 96% of patients. No major complications occurred. Average reduction in uterine volume was 48%. Control of menorrhagia was reported by 86% of patients at 3 months, 85% at 6 months, and 92% at 12 months after the procedure. Bulk symptoms were satisfactorily controlled in 64% of patients at 3 months, 77% at 6 months, and 92% at 12 months. Six women subsequently underwent hysterectomy and five had myomectomy.
Conclusion:
Uterine artery embolization appears to be a highly effective treatment for symptomatic uterine leiomyomata. Its impact on fertility and pregnancy remain to be investigated fully. (J Am Assoc Gynecol Laparosc 6(3):279-284, 1999)
