Evaluation of the effectiveness of innovative methods of focused ultrasound and uterine artery embolization in the treatment of uterine fibroids

BACKGROUND: Uterine fibroids are one of the most common gynecological diseases. The application of innovative techniques such as focused ultrasound ablation and uterine artery embolization has improved the quality of life of many patients. However, despite significant advances in innovative therapies, there is no certainty about the long-term efficacy of focused ultrasound ablation and uterine artery embolization.

AIM: The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of focused ultrasound ablation and uterine artery embolization treatments of uterine fibroids.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study analyzed observations of 112 patients with uterine fibroids. Patients in the first group were treated with focused ultrasound ablation (n = 44). The second group of patients underwent uterine artery embolization (n = 68).

RESULTS: The study groups differed in the reduction of myomatous node sizes one, three, six and 12 months after surgery, depending on the chosen treatment method (p < 0.001). In the first group, fibroid volume decreased by 14% after a month and by 35% after 12 months. In the second group, it decreased by 20% after a month and by 54% after a year.

CONCLUSIONS: Treatment with the uterine artery embolization method reduced fibroid volume by 54%, which is 19% more effective than the focused ultrasound ablation method.