[Non-surgical approach for symptomatic fibroids. Physical methods: selective embolization].

The approach to symptomatic uterine fibroids has seen a marked evolution in recent years thanks to the emergence of minimally invasive techniques that allow for uterine preservation. Selective uterine artery embolization (UAE) consists of the complete occlusion of the 2 uterine arteries with embolic particles in order to produce ischemic necrosis of the fibroids without permanently affecting the normal uterine tissue. This technique significantly reduces the amount of bleeding and causes a reduction in uterine volume at 3 months postprocedure, which is maintained over time, allowing for 70% of patients to avoid surgery. Moreover, UAE entails shorter surgical times, reduced hospital stays and fewer days needed to return to work when compared with traditional surgical techniques (hysterectomy and fibroidectomy), without any differences in the quality-of-life scales at 5 years. UAE should therefore be included in the therapeutic options offered to patients with symptomatic fibroid uteri.