Uterine artery embolization for leiomyomata

Objective: To determine whether uterine artery embolization is safe and eff ective for treating uterine leiomyomata. Methods: We analyzed 200 consecutive patients (61 reported previously) unde rgoing uterine artery embolization for the treatment of uterine leiomyomata at a single institution. After treatment, follow-up data were obtained by written questionnaire mailed to the patients at intervals of 2 weeks, 3 mon ths, 6 months, and 12 months after treatment. Follow-up imaging was obtaine d at 3 months and 12 months after therapy. All complications and subsequent gynecologic interventions were recorded prospectively, obtained using the patient questionnaires and physician contact. The percentages and their 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated to compare the symptoms at follo w-up. Proportional odds models for repeated ordinal responses were used to assess the stability of symptom improvement over time. Results: The mean follow-up was 21 months (minimum 12). Heavy menstrual ble eding improved in 87% (95% CI 82%, 92%) of patients at 3 months and in 90% (95% CI 86%, 95%) at I year after therapy, Bulk symptoms improved in 93% of patients (95% CI 88%, 96%) at 3 months and in 91% (95% CI 86%, 95%) at 1 y ear after treatment. Only one major periprocedural complication occurred (p ulmonary embolus), which resolved with anticoagulant therapy. Subsequent gy necologic interventions occurred in 10.5% of the patients (95% CI 7.0%, 15. 0%) during the follow-up period. Conclusion: Uterine artery embolization is safe and controls the symptoms c aused by leiomyomata in most patients. (C) 2001 by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.