Uterine artery embolisation for fibroids

NICE issued full guidance on this procedure to the NHS in England and Wales in July 2003. It included a statement saying that the procedure would be reconsidered pending the results of a systematic review to be commissioned by NICE. The Interventional Procedures Advisory Committee (IPAC) have reviewed the results of the systematic review and NICE has issued revised full guidance in October 2004 - IPG 94. This revised guidance replaces and updates the previous guidance IPG01.

This procedure is used to treat uterine fibroids, also known as uterine leiomyomas or uterine myomas. Uterine fibroids are benign tumours of the uterus. Symptoms caused by fibroids include abnormal bleeding, pelvic pressure and pain, and reproductive problems.  Fibroids are common and are the most frequent reason for a woman to have a hysterectomy.

Uterine artery embolisation (UAE) is an alternative to hysterectomy for fibroids, first reported in 1995.  The procedure is performed under conscious sedation, and both uterine arteries are blocked with particles injected via the femoral and uterine arteries. This causes the fibroids to shrink, but is believed to have no permanent effect on the rest of the uterus.  Patients are in hospital for 24-36 hours, and are advised to rest for 1-2 weeks. UAE is performed by a radiologist.

Other (see guidance)

Gynaecology, pregnancy and birth
Surgical procedures

Obstetrics and gynaecology

British Society of Interventional Radiology

Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists

Interventional Procedures Programme
National Institute for Clinical Excellence
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