Ob/Gyn group advises against uterine artery embolization for certain women

Uterine artery embolization is an increasingly popular treatment for uterine leiomyomata, but the procedure is not suitable for all women, according to a statement released Friday by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).

The statement, authored by ACOG’s committee on gynecologic practice, notes that the procedure should probably be avoided in women wishing to retain fertility.When performed by experienced clinicians, uterine artery embolization is effective in providing short-term relief of bulk-related symptoms and in reducing menstrual flow, the report states. Although complication rates are low, there have been rare reports of hysterectomy and even death. At present, there are limited data to support the procedure’s safety in women wanting to retain their fertility, the report notes. Moreover, few studies have assessed the effect of embolization on pregnancy-related outcomes. For these reasons, ACOG considers the procedure investigational or relatively contraindicated in such women. Similarly, the report warns that uterine artery embolization is rarely, if ever, indicated in postmenopausal women.ACOG concludes that women considering the procedure should have “a thorough evaluation with an obstetrician-gynecologist to help facilitate optimal collaboration with interventional radiologists and to ensure the appropriateness of this therapy, taking into account the reproductive wishes of the patient.” Discussing potential complications of the procedure is of prime importance, the group adds.(Source: Reuters Health: February 3, 2004: Oncolink)