[Embolization of symptomatic myomas (UAE): technique, indication and results]

Presentation of indication, technique and results of transarterial uterine artery embolization (UAE) for the treatment of symptomatic myomas. Technical requirements are presented like DSA, catheters, superselective catheterisation and the different embolization materials as polyvinylalcohol (PVA) or microspheres, as well as the follow-up after UAE. The technical success rate of UAE is documented to range between 98 to 100 % and myomatous symptomatology disappears in 85 to 94 % of the cases. A reduction in the size of the myomata after UAE is observed between 48 to 70 %. A resolution of the hemorrhage disappears in 80 to 96 % of the cases immediately. Particulate embolization of the uterine artery is a new minimally invasive therapy in the management of symptomatic leiomyomas with a high efficiency and low rate of major complications. Further studies may prove the longterm results after UAE, the influence on fertility and possible late complications.