Uterine artery embolization versus hysterectomy for uterine myoma: a meta-analysis of postoperative ovarian function

Introduction
Uterine artery embolization (UAE) and hysterectomy are often used to treat uterine myoma. Nevertheless, the impact of these two treatments on postoperative ovarian function remains uncertain.

Aim
To compare the postoperative ovarian function in individuals with uterine myoma who had UAE against hysterectomy.

Material and methods
Searches were conducted in the Wanfang, Web of Science, and PubMed databases to find qualifying studies. The data were combined and analyzed.

Results
Seven publications were included in this meta-analysis. Uterus and uterine myoma volume were dramatically decreased by UAE (p < 0.00001 for both). The combined preoperative levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and estradiol (E2) were similar in both groups. Three months postoperatively, the combined FSH (p = 0.28) and LH (p = 0.64) levels were similar in both groups, while the combined E2 level was notably higher in the UAE group compared to the hysterectomy group (p < 0.00001). Six months postoperatively, the combined postoperative FSH and LH levels were considerably lower in the UAE group compared to the hysterectomy group (p = 0.002 for both). However, the combined E2 levels were similar between the two groups (p = 0.07). Also, 12 months after surgery, the combined postoperative FSH and LH levels were remarkably lower in the UAE group compared to the hysterectomy group (p = 0.02 and p < 0.00001, respectively). However, the combined E2 levels were similar in both groups (p = 0.15).

Conclusions
UAE may provide superior preservation of postoperative ovarian function compared to hysterectomy in individuals with uterine myoma.