Alternative to Hysterectomy for Patients with Fibroids

A new study shows some promise in women with symptomatic fibroids. While the common treatment has been a hysterectomy, this study’s findings show that the patients who were studies faired well using a treatment called uterine artery embolization (UAE).

According to the National Women’s Health Information Center, fibroids are the most common reason for women to have their uterus removed. Uterine fibroids are benign growths that occur in the walls of the uterus, often causing intense menstrual pain and bleeding among those who have been diagnosed with the disease.

The UAE treatment is performed with a local anesthetic and involves 2 catheters being placed inside off the uterine arteries. These catheters block the flow of blood to the fibroids, causing them to die and relieving the symptoms for most patients.

This study examined 177 women over a 24 month period to review their need for hysterectomy’s and their quality of life. The study showed that 20% of the women still went in for a hysterectomy, possibly because of the pain and inconvenience associated with their menstrual cycles. One of the most beneficial findings of this study is that women who are suffering from fibroids have an alternative to a hysterectomy to seek relief.
Source: Radiological Society of North America