Recovery fast in uterine fibroid embolization: most patients recover within 2 weeks. (Largest Reported Series).

WINNIPEG, MAN. -- Most patients undergoing uterine fibroid embolization can return home the next day and fully recover within the expected 2-week period, according to results of a Canadian study.

The investigation, described by its authors as the largest reported series of patients who've undergone the procedure, was presented during the annual meeting of the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada.

"Recovery time is one of the major factors for these patients, because for them this is an added advantage ...in addition to avoiding a hysterectomy," said Dr. Gaylene Pron, an epidemiologist at the University of Toronto and principal investigator for the multicenter trial.

Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), also known as uterine artery embolization, is a procedure performed by interventional radiologists to treat uterine fibroids. It uses selective catheterization and occlusion of both uterine arteries to deprive fibroids of their blood supply. Occlusion is accomplished with particles of polyvinyl alcohol or Gelfoam, which remain in place. Patients are sent back to their referring physician for follow-up care.

In the study, 555 patients underwent UFE by 11 interventional radiologists practicing at eight hospitals. The mean length of hospital stay was 1.3 nights, mean recovery time was 13.1 days, and 81% of patients had recovered within 2 weeks.

The main complication that has been reported with ...