Embolization of uterine leiomyomata: current concepts in management

Transcatheter bilateral uterine artery embolization is a relatively new, but fast increasing modality being offered as an alternative to surgery for the treatment of symptomatic uterine fibroids (myomata). Since its introduction in 1995, it is estimated that over 5000 procedures have been performed, despite little objective evidence of its efficacy in comparison with more traditional surgical procedures, e.g. hysterectomy, abdominal or laparoscopic myomectomy or hysteroscopic procedures. The enthusiastic uptake of uterine artery embolization is partly due to the fact that it can be performed as a day case, and is a means of avoiding surgery especially hysterectomy. However, the procedure is not without significant risks, and these are becoming clearer as more procedures are being reported. This review examines the procedure, its use and purported efficacy and discusses its complications and potential hazards.