A prospective comparison of the impact of uterine artery embolization, myomectomy, and hysterectomy on ovarian function.
OBJECTIVE
To prospectively compare uterine artery embolization (UAE) versus myomectomy and hysterectomy with regard to ovarian function as measured by postprocedure follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and symptoms.


METHODS
Fifty-five patients were prospectively enrolled in the study: 33 patients who underwent UAE, seven who underwent myomectomy, and 15 who underwent hysterectomy. Patients had serum FSH and estradiol levels measured on the third day of the menstrual cycle before their procedure and at regular follow-up visits for as long as 6 months. At these intervals, patients were also surveyed regarding menopausal symptoms.


RESULTS
Although a mild transient increase in mean FSH level after UAE was noted at 3 months, there were no statistically significant differences among the three groups in mean FSH levels at 1 month, 3 months, or 6 months of follow-up. Menopausal symptoms arose in the UAE and hysterectomy groups, but there was no statistically significant difference or permanent effect in either group.


CONCLUSIONS
There is no significant difference in impact on ovarian function after UAE, hysterectomy, or myomectomy at follow-up for a maximum of 6 months.
Hovsepian
David M
DM
Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University, 510 South Kingshighway Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA. hovsepiand@wustl.edu
Ratts
Valerie S
VS
Rodriguez
Michael
M
Huang
Jessica S
JS
Aubuchon
Mira G
MG
Pilgram
Thomas K
TK
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D004621:Embolization, Therapeutic; D004958:Estradiol / Q000097:blood; D005260:Female; D005640:Follicle Stimulating Hormone / Q000097:blood; D006801:Humans; D007044:Hysterectomy; D007889:Leiomyoma / Q000601:surgery / Q000628:therapy*; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014594:Uterine Neoplasms / Q000601:surgery / Q000628:therapy*; D014599:Uterus / Q000098:blood supply*
D004958:Estradiol; D005640:Follicle Stimulating Hormone