Uterine artery embolization for the treatment of adenomyosis: a review

During the past 10 years, uterine artery embolization (UAE) has been investigated as a possible therapy for adenomyosis. All publications available from 1999 through 2010 are included in this report. Levels of evidence and trial classifications were evaluated according to the guidelines developed by the United States Preventive Services Task Force. Long-term data are available from 511 affected women from 15 studies. Improvements were reported by 387 patients (75.7%). The median follow-up was 26.9 months. UAE as treatment for adenomyosis shows significant clinical and symptomatic improvements on a short- and long-term basis.