The levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system: its effect on the number of hysterectomies performed in perimenopausal women with uterine fibroids

Abstract

This prospective observational study was designed to determine the percentage of hysterectomies avoided following insertion of a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) in perimenopausal women with uterine fibroids and a prior indication for surgery. The study also compared the progress of patients using the LNG-IUS with those submitted to hysterectomy, with particular emphasis on the patient’s satisfaction with treatment. Sixty perimenopausal patients with uterine fibroids and excessive bleeding referred for hysterectomy were included. After counseling on the possibility of non-surgical treatment, 39 patients opted to use an LNG-IUS while 21 opted for hysterectomy. Continuation of LNG-IUS use and the patient’s satisfaction with the chosen procedure were assessed. A secondary analysis evaluated hemoglobin levels, clinical complications, bleeding patterns and uterine volume at ultrasonography over time. After 24 months of follow-up, four of the patients who had opted to use an LNG-IUS were submitted to surgery, while 35 continued using the device, thus avoiding hysterectomy in 89.5% of cases. LNG-IUS users were more satisfied with treatment (p = 0.02) compared to those submitted to hysterectomy. In conclusion, the use of the LNG-IUS enables the number of hysterectomies to be reduced in women with uterine fibroids and is associated with greater satisfaction compared to surgical treatment.