Uterine artery embolization for leiomyomata

To determine whether uterine artery embolization is safe and effective for treating uterine leiomyomata.

We analyzed 200 consecutive patients (61 reported previously) undergoing uterine artery embolization for the treatment of uterine leiomyomata at a single institution. After treatment, follow-up data were obtained by written questionnaire mailed to the patients at intervals of 2 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months after treatment. Follow-up imaging was obtained at 3 months and 12 months after therapy. All complications and subsequent gynecologic interventions were recorded prospectively, obtained using the patient questionnaires and physician contact. The percentages and their 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated to compare the symptoms at follow-up. Proportional odds models for repeated ordinal responses were used to assess the stability of symptom improvement over time.

The mean follow-up was 21 months (minimum 12). Heavy menstrual bleeding improved in 87% (95% CI 82%, 92%) of patients at 3 months and in 90% (95% CI 86%, 95%) at 1 year after therapy. Bulk symptoms improved in 93% of patients (95% CI 88%, 96%) at 3 months and in 91% (95% CI 86%, 95%) at 1 year after treatment. Only one major periprocedural complication occurred (pulmonary embolus), which resolved with anticoagulant therapy. Subsequent gynecologic interventions occurred in 10.5% of the patients (95% CI 7.0%, 15.0%) during the follow-up period.

Uterine artery embolization is safe and controls the symptoms caused by leiomyomata in most patients.