Uterine artery embolization for the treatment of fibroids

Uterine artery embolization (UAE), or uterine fibroid embolization, is a non-surgical treatment for uterine fibroids that preserves the uterus and offers women an alternative to surgical procedures such as hysterectomy and myomectomy. Evidence from controlled trials comparing fibroid treatments is not yet available. Case series reports indicate that UAE is a relatively safe and effective treatment for symptomatic fibroids. The effect of UAE on fertility and pregnancy is not known, though pregnancies following UAE have been reported. UAE may reduce health care costs associated with treating fibroids through shorter hospital stays and faster recoveries.