We suggest that uterine artery embolization with gelatin sponge particles alone is a safe and effective treatment for symptomatic fibroids. The outcomes bear comparison with those of uterine artery embolization using polyvinyl alcohol particles, which have been reported in the literature.

Gadolinium-enhanced MR imaging is a useful diagnostic technique for uterine fibroids after uterine artery embolization because it assesses the degree of infarction in the embolized fibroids, which corresponds to the subsequent tumor volume reduction.

We found no increased risk to patients undergoing uterine artery embolization for fibroids on the basis of tumor size. Successful outcomes can be obtained for such lesions.

Uterine artery embolization using gelatin sponge particles alone can achieve long-term symptom control for fibroids in most cases.

The size distribution of gelatin sponge particles differed according to the method used to make them. More uniform particle sizes can be achieved by cutting than by pumping.