ABSTRACT
To date, the most common treatments for uterine fibroids are myomectomy and uterine artery embolization for women who are interested in uterine preservation, and who may have failed more conservative therapy. Myomectomy is performed traditionally through a relatively large abdominal incision but in selected cases can be performed laparoscopically by a physician with advanced laparoscopic skill. In either case, the fibroids are removed by incisions made through the uterine wall, which are then methodically closed by suturing in a layered fashion. Unless very superficial in depth, myomectomy potentially weakens the integrity of the gravid uterine wall, which may have significant implications for the conduct of subsequent pregnancies. However, at this moment, myomectomy is the only treatment approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for uterine fibroids in women who are interested in future pregnancy.
