Selective uterine artery embolization in the management of uterine myomas

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 I to 6 months and I 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.