Management of uterine adenomyosis: current trends and uterine artery embolization as a potential alternative to hysterectomy

• Main Authors: Riham Dessouky, Sherif A. Gamil, Mohamad Gamal Nada, Rola Mousa, Yasmine Libda
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: SpringerOpen 2019-04-01
• Series: Insights into Imaging
• Subjects: Adenomyosis; Uterine artery embolization; Hysterectomy
• Online Access: http://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s13244-019-0732-8

Abstract Adenomyosis is a challenging clinical condition that is commonly being diagnosed in women of reproductive age. To date, many aspects of the disease have not been fully understood, making management increasingly difficult. Over time, minimally invasive diagnostic and treatment methods have developed as more women desire uterine preservation for future fertility or to avoid major surgery. Several uterine-sparing treatment options are now available, including medication, hysteroscopic resection or ablation, conservative surgical methods, and high-intensity focused ultrasound each with its own risks and benefits. Uterine artery embolization is an established treatment option for uterine fibroids and has recently gained ground as a safe and cost-effective method for treatment of uterine adenomyosis with promising results. In this review, we discuss current trends in the management of uterine adenomyosis with a special focus on uterine artery embolization as an alternative to hysterectomy.