Transvaginal uterine artery ligation: a possible alternative treatment modality for the symptomatic fibroids

ABSTRACT

To determine the efficacy of Transvaginal Uterine Artery Ligationfor the management of symptomatic fibroids. 19 women, aged from 33 to 46 years, with symptomatic, single uterine fibroid, not exceeding 14 weeks, were recruited. Objective measurement of menstrual blood loss [MBL] by the alkaline hematin technique [Hallberg, et al, 1966], and ultrasonographic measurement of the fibroid volumes were determined preoperatively and at 3, 6 and 12 month post operative follow up. Improvement of the presenting symptoms -was observed during follow up. There was a significant decrease in the sonographic myoma volume at 3 month [P> 0.05], 6 months [P> 0.01], and 12 month [P> 0.01] postoperatively. The MBL was significantly lower in the postoperative follow up, when compared with the preoperative levels; at 3 month [P< 0.05], 6 month [P< 0.01], and 12 month [P< 0.01]. Rise in hemoglobin concentration was observed at 3 month postoperative [P>0.05]. Statistically significant higher hemoglobin concentrations were observed at 6 and 12 month postoperatively [P< 0.05]. There were no cases of ureteric injury, and none needed a second procedure. Transvaginal uterine artery ligation could be considered a possible, simple, alternative treatment modality for the symptomatic fibroids