Selective uterine artery embolization in the management of uterine myomas

Abstract Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of uterine artery embolization in women with uterine myomas in terms of the clinical results for the relief of related symptoms. Design A pilot study on 26 women affected by uterine single myoma. Setting Tertiary level care in an university hospital. Patient(s) Twenty-six patients, aged 32 to 54 years, suffering of menorrhagia, pelvic pain, and abdominal mass for single myoma, intramural localization. Intervention(s) Selective uterine artery embolization performed under peridural anesthesia. Main outcome measure(s) We measured the x-ray dose to which patients were exposed. Color power Doppler ultrasound examinations were performed during the follow-up evaluations at 1 to 6 months and 1 year after the procedure. Result(s) Uterine artery embolization was successfully performed in 100% of cases. The mean fluoroscopy time was of 20 minutes during the procedure. The mean dose of x-ray absorbed by the ovary was estimated at 18.7 cGy and the mean dose of x-ray absorbed by the skin was 126.7 cGy. A reduction of myoma volume of 55% was found at 6 months' ultrasound examination and 75% at the 1-year examination. Conclusion(s) Patients are well satisfied and have short recovery times with this procedure. Uterine artery embolization may be a valid alternative to traditional surgery.