Compare the effectiveness and safety of different surgical and non-surgical treatments for uterine fibroids

Abstract

Uterine fibroids, or leiomyomas, are common benign tumors affecting many women of reproductive age, often causing significant symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and reproductive issues that impact quality of life. This literature review compares the effectiveness and safety of various surgical and non-surgical treatments for uterine fibroids, including myomectomy, hysterectomy, uterine artery embolization (UAE), pharmacological interventions like Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) agonists and Selective Progesterone Receptor Modulators (SPRMs), and MRI-guided focused ultrasound surgery (MRgFUS). Surgical options like myomectomy and hysterectomy offer symptom relief but come with higher risks and longer recovery, while UAE presents a less invasive alternative. Non-surgical treatments provide symptom control with varying side effects, with SPRMs showing a better side effect profile than GnRH agonists. MRgFUS offers a non-invasive option with fewer complications, though long-term efficacy requires more study. The review emphasizes the importance of individualized treatment based on factors such as symptom severity, fibroid characteristics, and patient preferences, aiming to inform clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes, while also suggesting future research directions to fill knowledge gaps and enhance treatment strategies.