Fibroids treated by uterine artery embolization - A review

An increasing number of reports indicate that uterine fibroids can he succe ssfully treated with uterine artery embolization (UAE). UAE seems to be a p romising treatment for women who want to retain their uterus. This review s ummarizes the technical considerations and the results. UAE is a radiologic al procedure using angiography for visualization of the blood circulation. Subsequently, the Row through the uterine arteries is blocked resulting in infarction of fibroids. Success rates of 87% have been achieved with an ave rage 57% reduction of fibroid volume. Complications have been few compared to hysterectomy and patient satisfaction is high. However, none of the repo rts include controls. Further studies are needed to optimize patient select ion and to evaluate long-term results.