Ginekol Pol. 2026;97(4):272-278. doi: 10.5603/gpl.108254.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: To assess long-term efficacy and safety of uterine artery embolization for symptomatic uterine fibroids.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included women undergoing uterine artery embolization for symptomatic fibroids from 2012 to 2023. A validated questionnaire assessed symptoms (e.g., heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain) pre- and post- uterine artery embolization. Data on fibroid characteristics, follow-up duration, menopause status, and complications were collected. Patients were stratified into follow-up terciles. Statistical analyses included Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, linear regression with menopause adjustment, and Spearman correlations tests (p < 0.05).
RESULTS: Uterine artery embolization significantly reduced symptoms, particularly bleeding-related complaints, with sustained efficacy across short-, mid-, and long-term follow-up, even after menopause adjustment. Menopause enhanced symptom relief. No correlations were found between symptom reduction and age, fibroid size, or prior treatment. Complications, mostly minor, occurred in a notable proportion, with rare major events. A small subset achieved successful pregnancies post-embolization.
CONCLUSIONS: Uterine artery embolization is an effective, minimally invasive treatment for fibroid-related symptoms, with sustained benefits over time; menopause significantly predicts greater symptom improvement.
PMID:42138001 | DOI:10.5603/gpl.108254
