Multidisciplinary Approach in Large-sized Submucosal Myoma: Hysteroscopic Myomectomy after Uterine Artery Embolization

Study Objective

To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of hysteroscopic myomectomy after uterine artery embolization (UAE) for the treatment of large-sized submucosal myomas with deep intramural invasion that are difficult to treat with 1-step hysteroscopy.

Design

A retrospective cohort study (Canadian Task Force classification II-2).

Setting

An academic university hospital.

Patients

Eight premenopausal patients with symptomatic submucosal myomas with intramural invasion.

Interventions

All of the patients after bilateral UAE underwent subsequent hysteroscopic operation 3 to 15 months after UAE.

Measurements and Main Results

A total of 8 patients who had a large-sized submucosal myoma with deep myometrial invasion were included. The average volume of the submucosal myomas was 87.7±39.9 cm³ as confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging, and the average patient age was 37.6 years. The mean volume reduction of the submucosal myomas was 83.3±16.4% after UAE, and no immediate complications were observed. One-step hysteroscopic myomectomy after UAE was successfully performed in all patients. Leiomyomas with hyaline degeneration were pathologically confirmed. All women showed improved symptoms, and there was no evidence of recurrence 1 year later. One patient conceived naturally and delivered a full-term baby.

Conclusion

In premenopausal women with large-sized symptomatic submucosal myomas with deep myometrial invasion, hysteroscopic myomectomy after UAE is very effective and safe.