Does preoperative uterine artery embolization decrease blood loss during total abdominal hysterectomy for uterine fibroids?

Uterine fibroids, a common gynecologic condition in reproductive-age women, often present with symptoms of heavy uterine bleeding and abdominal pain. Hysterectomy is the definitive treatment, particularly for large fibroids. Intraoperative bleeding risks are of concern during hysterectomy for large fibroid uterus as bleeding can limit intraoperative visualization and increase morbidity. Uterine artery embolization (UAE) is a minimally invasive procedure that decreases blood flow to the uterus and fibroids by occluding the uterine arteries.

Source: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology - March 21, 2024 Category: OBGYN Authors: C Lara, G Lewis Source Type: research