title: Selective uterine artery embolization as primary treatment for symptomatic leiomyomata uteri.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To analyze initial experience with uterine artery embolization for treatment of symptomatic leiomyomata.
  
  
  METHODS
  Prospective, longitudinal study (Canadian Task Force classification II-2).
  
  
  METHODS
  Private practice, university-affiliated hospital.
  
  
  METHODS
  Three hundred five women (age 26-52 yrs).
  
  
  METHODS
  Uterine artery embolization, performed over 2 years by a single radiologist working in collaboration with a single gynecology practice.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Embolization was technically successful in 96% of patients. No major complications occurred. Average reduction in uterine volume was 48%. Control of menorrhagia was reported by 86% of patients at 3 months, 85% at 6 months, and 92% at 12 months after the procedure. Bulk symptoms were satisfactorily controlled in 64% of patients at 3 months, 77% at 6 months, and 92% at 12 months. Six women subsequently underwent hysterectomy and five had myomectomy.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Uterine artery embolization appears to be a highly effective treatment for symptomatic uterine leiomyomata. Its impact on fertility and pregnancy remain to be investigated fully. (J Am Assoc Gynecol Laparosc 6(3):279-284, 1999)
authors.affiliation: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
authors.forename: F L
authors.initials: FL
authors.lastname: Hutchins
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Worthington-Kirsch
authors.forename: R P
authors.initials: RP
authors.lastname: Berkowitz
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D004621:Embolization, Therapeutic / Q000379:methods*; D019160:Endosonography; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007889:Leiomyoma / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008875:Middle Aged; D011247:Pregnancy; D011446:Prospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014594:Uterine Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D014599:Uterus / Q000098:blood supply*