Transarterial embolization for uterine fibroids:: Clinical success rate and results of magnetic resonance imaging

Purpose: To analyze the clinical success rate and the findings of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after uterine artery embolio zation of symptomatic leiomyomas (fibroids) of the uterus. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective single-center case study of 80 consecutively treated patients. followed for 3-6 months (group 1), 7 - 12 months, (group 11), and 13 - 25 months (group 111). MRI was used to deter-mine the uterine volume and size of the dominant leiomyoma. Symproms and causes requiring repeat interventions were analyzed. Results: Sigificant (p < 0.01) volume reduction of the uterus (median: 34.95% confidence interval [CI]: 30.41 -41.76X) and dominant leiomyoma (median: 52.07%, CI: 47.71 -61.57Z) was found. The decrease in uterine volume (I-III: 22.68%, 33.56%, 47.93%) and dominant leiomyoma volume (I-III: 41.86%, 62.16%. 73.96%) progressed with the follow-up rime. Bleeding resolved significantly (p < 0.0001) in all three follow-up groups (groups I-III: 92.86%, 95.23%, 96.67%). Furthermore, urinary frequency (groups I-III: 70%, 75%, 82.35%) and sensation of pelvic pressure (groups I-III: 42.86%, 60%, 93.75%) improved, which was statistically significant in group III (p < 0.01). The number of leiomyomas correlated (p < 0.05) with improvement of the bleeding and the pelvic pressure. Repeat therapy was necessary for complications in four patients (5%) and for therapeutic failure in three patients (3.8%) Permanent amenorrhea was observed in four patients (5%) of age 45 years or older. Conclusion: Uterine artery embolization of uterine leiomyomas has a high clinical success rate with an acceptable incidence of complications and repeat interventions.