The levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system: its effect on the number of hysterectomies performed in perimenopausal women with uterine fibroids.

This prospective observational study was designed to determine the percentage of hysterectomies avoided following insertion of a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) in perimenopausal women with uterine fibroids and a prior indication for surgery. The study also compared the progress of patients using the LNG-IUS with those submitted to hysterectomy, with particular emphasis on the patient's satisfaction with treatment. Sixty perimenopausal patients with uterine fibroids and excessive bleeding referred for hysterectomy were included.