Fibroid embolization proves primacy in two trial results

Two major studies have concluded that uterine artery embolization is as good as or better than hysterectomy or myomectomy for treatment of uterine fibroids.

The multicenter Embolization versus Hysterectomy (EMMY) trial enrolled 177 women with uterine fibroids who were randomized to undergo UAE or hysterectomy. All UAE patients showed significant improvement six months after treatment, while a smaller proportion of hysterectomy patients did. UAE patients also spent less time in the hospital than their counterparts. Another study, the Fibroid Registry for Outcomes Data (FIBROID), showed that 90% of the participating women avoided hysterectomy or myomectomy by undergoing UAE. About 85% reported improved symptoms and quality of life. The registry included three-year data on 1278 patients from 26 U.S. sites.