Embolization versus myomectomy versus hysterectomy: which is best, when?

Uterine fibroids are the commonest tumour affecting the female reproductive tract. In many instances they are asymptomatic, but in some women there does appear to be an association with heavy menstrual blood loss and, possibly, subfertility. Classically, treatment has been surgical with hysterectomy the most common approach for women who have completed their fertility and myomectomy for those who wish to conceive. The surgery can be carried out laparoscopically, vaginally and abdominally, although all routes are associated with an appreciable rate of morbidity. Myomectomy can also be achieved hysteroscopically. Hysterectomy is associated with a high rate of satisfaction and is likely to relieve menstrual problems in virtually all women. The success of myomectomy is less certain since no randomized trials against expectant management have ever been carried out. In addition, myomectomy may lead to adhesion formation within the abdominal cavity, which may impair fertility further. Since myomectomy is not the ideal answer, other treatments for fibroids are being sought. Medical treatment may be useful in specific instances and for the short-term, but does not lead to a cure. Consequently, other modalities are being developed, one of which is uterine artery embolization. This procedure involves occluding the vessels using either foam or coils. The normal myometrium rapidly develops a new blood supply from collateral circulations, whereas the fibroids do not. The procedure leads to fibroid shrinkage of approximately 30-50% and appears to lead to relief of fibroid-associated symptoms, although it is too early to determine the effect on fertility. However, it is associated with significant complications and requires further evaluation before being accepted as a useful alternative to surgical therapy in the management of women with uterine fibroids.