Uterine artery embolization for symptomatic fibroids.

OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to introduce uterine artery embolization (UAE) as an effective and safe treatment option in patients with symptomatic fibroids. METHODS Sixty-one patients underwent UAE with a 3- and 12-month follow-up. RESULTS The procedure was well tolerated in all patients with the following symptoms improving: heavy bleeding [90% (95% CI 80.21%; 95.4%)]; dysmenorrhea [median -4 (95% CI -5; -4)]; feeling of a mass [74% (95% CI 57.9%; 85.8%)]; abdomino-pelvic discomfort [88% (95% CI 75.5%; 94.9%)]; and deep dyspareunia [90% (95% CI 71.1%; 97.3%)]. Uterine volume decreased by a median difference of 188 cm(3) (95% CI 146.5; 236), which related to a median % reduction of 37.7% (95% CI 32.4%; 45%) at 12-month follow-up. Most (91%) patients were satisfied with the procedure and only minor complications occurred. CONCLUSIONS Uterine artery embolization can be performed effectively and safely at centers with the necessary expertise and can be used with success in Africa.