Arterial embolization of uterine fibroids

Uterine fibroid is the most common benign tumor in women, above all in childbearing age because of estrogen-dependency. In fact, in this age group, it has an incidence of 25-30% and requires different management and treatment depending on various factors such as location, volume, number and symptoms. Fibroids originate from the uterine smooth muscle component, they can be single or more often multiple and their size can range from a few millimeters to more than 20 cm in diameter. Depending on their location within the uterine wall, they are classified into: submucosal fibroids which develop below the endometrium protruding, in some cases, into the uterine cavity; intramural fibroids which grow in the thickness of the myometrium; subserosal fibroids which originate below the peritoneal serosa. Our review takes into account the literature data on the various practical techniques for the treatment of uterine fibroids, emphasizing in particular those concerning the usefulness and effectiveness of uterine artery embolization (UAE). In fact, the UAE is an interventional radiologic technique of more recent introduction that, in appropriately selected cases, may represent a minimally invasive alternative to hysterectomy and myomectomy procedures.