Arterial embolization of uterine fibroids.

PURPOSE

the aim of this study was to analyze outcomes in a series of patients with symptomatic uterine fibroids who had undergone endovascular arterial embolization.

METHODS

analysis included 36 patients with uterine fibroids and average age of 38.5 years, with bilateral endovascular embolization of fibroid-feeding arteries. Solitary uterine fibroids were present in 20 (56%) patients, and multiple in 16 (44%) patients. The patients were followed up to one year after embolization.

RESULTS

in the subgroup of patients with solitary uterine fibroids, 6 months after the embolization, the volume of uterine fibroids was reduced to 50% in 16 patients, and to 38% in 4 patients. After one year, the volume of uterine fibroids was reduced to 50% in all 36 patients. In the subgroup of patients with multiple uterine fibroids, 6 months after the embolization, the volume of uterine fibroids was reduced to 50% in 10 patients, and to 36% in 6 patients. After one year, the volume of uterine fibroids was reduced to 50% in 14 patients, while in 2 patients the reduction of the volume remained 36%. After one year, all patients became symptomless.

CONCLUSION

the results of this case series show high efficacy of endovascular embolization of uterine fibroids: with a minimally invasive treatment, the volume of uterine fibroids is halved and symptoms disappear, obviating the need for a surgical intervention.