Fibroid Embolization Research Articles

Thirty-day healthcare encounters after elective uterine artery embolization for fibroids with and without superior hypogastric nerve block

To evaluate how the implementation of superior hypogastric nerve block (SHNB) during uterine artery embolization (UAE) for uterine fibroids impacts same-day discharge and healthcare encounters (HE) within 30 days. 240 patients who underwent successful UAE for fibroids between January 2018 and December 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. HE within 30 days, including emergency department (ED) and urgent care visits, admissions, and readmissions, were categorized as early (0-7 days of discharge) and late (8-30 days of discharge), and related or unrelated to interventional radiology (IR) care. Factors associated with same-day discharge and HE were identified with univariate analyses. Rates of HE based on SHNB status were compared using chi-square tests. Mean age was 46 ± 5 years; 125 patients received UAE with SHNB. Patients who underwent SHNB were significantly more likely to undergo same-day discharge (113/125, 90%) compared to those without SHNB (55/115, 48%) (p<0.001). There were no factors associated with rates of all-cause 30-day HE, including SHNB status (SHNB 17% (21/125) vs no SHNB 10% (12/115), p=0.20). A majority of HE were due to an IR-related cause (26/33, 79%), including abdominal or pelvic pain (22/33, 67%), nausea, vomiting, or poor oral intake (18/33, 55%), and vaginal bleeding (4/33, 12%). Comparing SHNB to no SHNB patients, there was no difference in the proportion of IR-related HE (17/21 (81%) vs 9/12 (75%), p=0.69). UAE with SHNB is associated with significantly higher rates of same-day discharge but similar rates of 30-day healthcare encounters, compared to UAE alone.

Partial right gonadal vein thrombosis after uterine fibroid embolization

Gonadal vein thrombosis (GVT) is a very rare complication of uterine fibroid embolization. The risk factors for GVT include pregnancy, especially after caesarean-section, oral contraceptive use, underlying malignancy, any pelvic surgery including embolization procedures, pelvic inflammatory disease, inflammatory bowel disease and idiopathic causes. We report a case of a patient who underwent extensive uterine fibroid embolization and presented to the Emergency Department within twenty-four hours, with fever, and severe abdominal pain. Computed tomography of the abdomen and pelvis with intravenous (IV) contrast confirmed a partial right gonadal vein thrombosis. After extensive work up, and no alternative causes found, a diagnosis of procedure related GVT was made. After review of the literature and discussion with hematology consultants, she was started on anticoagulant therapy. Her symptoms resolved and she remained on anticoagulation for a duration of three months

Uterine artery embolization for uterine fibroids: predictive MRI features of volumetric response

Uterine artery embolization for uterine fibroids: predictive MRI features of volumetric response

Progress in the Search for an Effective Resorbable Embolic Material for Uterine Fibroid Embolization.

Progress in the Search for an Effective Resorbable Embolic Material for Uterine Fibroid Embolization.

Interventional Radiology Awareness Among Family Physicians and General Practitioners in Jazan Region, Saudi Arabia.

Background Interventional radiology (IR) utilizes minimally invasive procedures guided by imaging to diagnose and treat various conditions, offering less invasive alternatives to traditional surgery. Despite its importance, awareness among family medicine practitioners can vary, affecting patient care. While IR has advanced in Saudi Arabia, there are limited data on family medicine practitioners' understanding of IR. This study assesses awareness of IR procedures among family medicine doctors in Jazan and their perceived need for further education. Methods A cross-sectional interview-administered survey was conducted online among family medicine doctors in Jazan via social media. The survey assessed demographic data, awareness of IR procedures, self-rated knowledge, and attitudes towards IR. Participants' understanding of IR training, hospital privileges, outpatient clinics, and recognition by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCHS) was evaluated. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Results Out of 395 respondents, the age distribution was as follows: 20-29 years (44.3%), 30-39 years (32.9%), and 40 years or older (22.8%). Gender distribution was as follows: females (44.6%) and males (55.4%). Specialties included family medicine consultants (10.6%), residents (32.4%), specialists (22.8%), and general practitioners (34.2%). Awareness of IR procedures varied: uterine fibroid embolization (58.7%), coronary angiography (57.5%), vascular angioplasty (63.5%), radiofrequency ablation (61.3%), peripheral vascular bypass (61.8%), brain biopsy (56.2%), nephrostomy tube placement (59.5%), varicose veins treatment (63.0%), and cystoscopic tumor resection (54.7%). Self-rated knowledge was as follows: poor (46.8%), adequate (27.1%), good (15.7%), and excellent (10.4%). Most believed that interventional radiologists' training was in radiology (62.8%), with fewer attributing it to vascular surgery (20.5%) or a combination (16.7%). Regarding privileges and facilities, 248 (62.8%) reported hospital admitting privileges for IRs, 251 (63.5%) reported outpatient clinics, and 45 (11.4%) were unsure about admitting privileges. SCHS recognition was confirmed by 267 (67.6%). Referrals to IRs were made by 283 (71.6%), and 260 (65.8%) would increase referrals with more knowledge. The perceived benefit of additional education was as follows: no benefit (48.4%), some benefit (30.6%), and significant benefit (21.0%). Conclusion The study reveals gaps in awareness and knowledge of IR among family medicine doctors in Jazan. While there is recognition of IR's value and a willingness to refer patients, variations in knowledge highlight the need for targeted educational interventions. Improving education on IR could enhance integration into patient care and optimize outcomes.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of current evidence in uterine artery embolization vs myomectomy for symptomatic uterine fibroids

This review compares the efficacy of Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE) and Myomectomy (MYO) in managing symptomatic Uterine Fibroids (UFs) in women who do not want hysterectomy. A meta-analysis was performed on all available studies that evaluated the relative benefits and harms of MYO and UEA for the management of patients suffering from UFs. Outcomes evaluated reintervention, UFs scores for quality of life (QOL) and symptom severity, and other complications. To determine mean differences (MDs) or odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), a random or fixed-effects model was utilized. A meta-analysis of 13 studies (9 observational and 4 randomized controlled trials) was conducted. The results indicated that UAE had a higher reintervention rate (OR 1.84; 95% CI 1.62–2.10; P < 0.01; I2 = 39%), hysterectomy rate (OR 4.04; 95% CI 3.45–4.72; P < 0.01; I2 = 59%), and symptom-severity score (OR − 4.02; 95% CI 0.82, 7.22; P = 0.01; I2 = 0%) compared to MYO at a four-year follow-up. However, UAE was associated with a lower rate of early complications (OR 0.44; 95% CI 0.20–0.95; P = 0.04; I2 = 25%), and readmission rate (OR 1.16; 95% CI 1.01–1.33; P = 0.04; I2 = 0%) compared to MYO. Furthermore, both procedures had comparable improvement in pregnancy rates and abnormal uterine bleeding. In conclusion, UAE and MYO are effective in treating symptomatic UFs but they have different outcomes. The decision on which procedure to choose should be made based on individual preferences and the physician’s expertise.

The role of VEGF and TGF-β blood levels for fibroid shrinkage, menorrhagia score, and quality of life improvement after uterine artery embolization for uterine fibroids: a study protocol.

Uterine leiomyoma is a common condition affecting women that occurs in more than 70% of females. Women with leiomyomas overall have lower quality of life and deficiency in many specific spheres of life including work-related productivity, sexuality, relationships, social-emotional health, and physical well-being that might be present even in pre-and extended throughout early postmenopausal life. Choices for symptomatic fibroid management include medical, interventional radiology procedures, surgical, and expectant management. The uterine artery embolization (UAE) procedure has gained justified popularity for myoma management. Growth factors, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and tumor growth factor β (TGF-β), hold an important role in leiomyoma progression. However, blood levels of VEGF and TGF-β in patients before and after UAE are not fully investigated and the possible relationship with myoma shrinkage has not been evaluated. Therefore, this study aims to assess menorrhagia score and quality of life improvement after UAE for uterine fibroids and compare blood levels of VEGF and TGF-β in patients with uterine leiomyoma before and after UAE. This cross-sectional study will be performed at the University Medical Center, Astana, Kazakhstan. Women undergoing the UAE procedure for uterine leiomyoma will be involved in the study following the precisely defined inclusion/exclusion criteria. Uterine leiomyoma nodules' structural changes after UAE will be assessed along with the blood levels of growth factors (VEGF and TGF-β), menorrhagia score, and quality of life. An important outcome of this project will be an investigation of the blood levels of growth factors (VEGF and TGF-β) before and after the procedure and their association with leiomyoma shrinkage in correlation with the menorrhagia score and quality of life alterations among patients undergoing UAE.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization Survey in Canada: Challenges, Opportunities, and Differences in Practices Across the Country.

Purpose: To assess the current practices surrounding Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) in Canada. Methods: An online survey was sent to Canadian Association for Interventional Radiology (CAIR) members. It included questions on symptoms prompting UFE, patient awareness, investigation, UFE settings, the number of UFE procedures, and post-UFE care. The findings were discussed at CAIR's 2023 annual meeting by an expert panel. Results: Out of 792 surveys sent, 87 were filled (11%). Menorrhagia is the most common indication for UFE (87%). Women's awareness of UFE as a treatment option for fibroids is viewed as poor or average by 94% of our survey respondents. Most respondents see patients in clinics (92%) before the procedure and evaluate fibroids with MRI pre-UFE (76%). There is variability in care post-UFE, with 33% of procedures being performed as day surgery while 67% lead to overnight stay. For pain management, intravenous analgesia (including patient-controlled analgesia) is used in 76% (63/83) of cases while 19% (16/83) of respondents mentioned using epidural analgesia. Finally, there is an even split between embolic agent used; non-spherical polyvinyl alcohol (50%) and spherical particles (50%). Conclusion: Respondents believe patients in Canada still have limited awareness of UFE. Interventional radiologists are increasingly involved in the entire patient care trajectory, overseeing pre-and post-procedure care and hospitalizing patients. For pain management after UFE, it is observed that while epidural analgesia has been demonstrated more effective than alternatives, it is not widely used as the primary method.

The OEIS National Registry: Rationale, Context, and Current Status

Office based interventional procedures continue to increase in number and scope. An overview of the Outpatient Endovascular and Interventional Society (OEIS) National Registry (OEISNR) is described in this article. Currently there is one production module enrolling peripheral artery interventional procedures, and a new cardiac module encompassing both diagnostic catheterization/percutaneous coronary interventions and electrophysiology procedures is undergoing beta testing. A new embolization module with uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) as the initial modality is nearly initial development completion and expected to enter beta in 2024. The OEISNR has over 338 participating physicians and has enrolled over 42,000 cases since inception in 2017 with an extremely high rate of technical success (97%) and very low complication rates (2.15% overall, 1.65% minor complications, 0.53% major complications). More detailed data breakdowns including patient demographics and comorbidities, indications, lesion characteristics, treatment modalities and device utilization, complication details, and data integrity data are contained in this report. Sample analytics, sample dashboards, and structural details are illustrated and included.

Impact of superior hypogastric nerve block during uterine fibroid embolisation on pain scores, opioid requirements, and same-day discharge: a case–control study

To assess the safety and efficacy of superior hypogastric nerve block (SHNB) in managing periprocedural pain associated with uterine fibroid embolisation (UFE) and in facilitating same-day discharge. Prospectively enrolled case-control study with retrospective analysis comprising 119 eligible patients who underwent UFE for symptomatic fibroids was undertaken at a UK teaching hospital between January 2016 and September 2022. SHNB was administered to 62 participants in addition to systemic analgesia; 57 participants received systemic analgesia alone. SHNB was performed mid-UFE using 20 ml of 0.25% levobupivacaine. Pain scores were assessed using an 11-point (0-10) verbal numerical rating scale (NRS). The study received research and ethics committee approval. Statistical analysis was performed using the chi-square and independent t-test or Mann-Whitney U-test. A p-value of <0.05 defined significance. Participants who received SHNB experienced significantly less pain during the first 6 h post-procedure (averaged median pain score 2.6 versus 3.8, p=0.031). SHNB reduced the proportion of participants requiring post-procedural anti-emetics (45% versus 63%, p<0.05). For participants entered on the day-case pathway (SHNB=34, no-SHNB=16), those who received SHNB had a higher rate of successful same-day discharge (62% versus 31%, p=0.044). This SHNB group required significantly less opioids for periprocedural pain relief (median oral morphine equivalents; 44 mg versus 80 mg, p=0.020). No SHNB-related adverse events occurred. SHNB is safe and effective in reducing perioperative pain, opioid requirements, and anti-emetic use in patients undergoing UFE for symptomatic fibroids. SHNB, as an adjunct to analgesic optimisation, facilitates same-day discharge, which is often limited by severe post-embolisation pain.

Radiation dose to multidisciplinary staff members during complex interventional procedures

IntroductionComplex interventional radiology procedures involve extensive fluoroscopy and image acquisition while staff are in-room. Monitoring occupational radiation dose is crucial in optimization. The purpose was to determine radiation doses received by staff involved in complex interventional procedures performed in a dedicated vascular or neuro intervention room. MethodsIndividual real-time radiation dose for all staff involved in vascular and neuro-interventional procedures in adult patients was recorded over a one-year period using wireless electronic dosimeters attached to the apron thyroid shield. A reference dosimeter was attached to the C-arm near the tube housing to measure scattered, unshielded radiation. Radiology staff carried shoulder thermo-luminescent dosimeters with monthly read-out to monitor dose over time. ResultsOccupational radiation dose was measured in 99 interventional procedures. In many cases prostate artery embolization procedures exposed radiologists to high radiation doses with a median of 15.0 μSv and a very large spread, i.e. 0.2–152.5 μSv. In all procedures except uterine fibroid embolization radiographers were exposed to lower doses than those of radiologists, with endovascular aortic repair being the procedure with highest median exposure to assisting radiographers, i.e. 2.2 μSv ranging from 0.1 to 36.1 μSv. Median radiation dose for the reference dosimeter was 670 μGy while median staff dose for all procedures combined was 3.2 μGy. ConclusionRadiation doses for multiple staff were determined and the ratio between staff dose and reference dosimeter indicated proper use of shielding in general. Some high-dose procedures may need further optimization for certain staff members, especially those not primarily employed in radiology. Implications for practiceThe study provides benchmark doses that may be used widely in audits and in the ongoing effort to optimize radiation protection for staff in interventional radiology.

Patient Characteristics Associated With Embolization Versus Hysterectomy for Uterine Fibroids: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

IntroductionBlack and underinsured women in the United States are more likely than their counterparts to develop uterine fibroids (UFs) and experience more severe symptoms. Uterine artery embolization (UAE), a uterine-sparing therapeutic procedure, is less invasive than the common alternative, open hysterectomy. To determine whether demographic disparities persist in UF treatment utilization, we reviewed patient characteristics associated with UAE versus hysterectomy for UF among studies of US clinical practices. MethodsA systematic literature review was conducted via PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL (PROSPERO CRD42023455051), yielding 1,350 articles (January 1, 1995, to July 15, 2023) that outlined demographic characteristics of UAE compared with hysterectomy. Two readers screened for inclusion criteria, yielding 13 full-text US-based comparative studies specifying at least one common demographic characteristic. Random effects meta-analysis was performed on the data (STATA v18.0). Egger’s regression test was used to quantify publication bias. ResultsNine (138,960 patients), four (183,643 patients), and seven (312,270 patients) studies were analyzed for race, insurance status, and age as predictors of treatment modality, respectively. Black race (odds ratio = 3.35, P < .01) and young age (P < .05) were associated with UAE, whereas private insurance (relative to Medicare and/or Medicaid) was not (odds ratio = 1.06, P = .52). Between-study heterogeneity (I2 > 50%) was detected in all three meta-analyses. Small-study bias was detected for age but not race or insurance. Conclusions and ImplicationsKnowledge of demographic characteristics of patients with UFs receiving UAE versus hysterectomy is sparse (n = 13 studies). Among these studies, which seem to be racially well distributed, Black and younger women are more likely to receive UAE than their counterparts.

Long-Term Health Related Quality of Life Following Uterine Fibroid Embolization in a Predominantly Black African Population: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Long-Term Health Related Quality of Life Following Uterine Fibroid Embolization in a Predominantly Black African Population: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Uterine Artery Embolization for Multiple Uterine Fibroids in a Quadriplegic Patient at Risk for Autonomic Dysreflexia – A Case Report

Uterine Artery Embolization for Multiple Uterine Fibroids in a Quadriplegic Patient at Risk for Autonomic Dysreflexia – A Case Report

Efficacy of uterine artery embolization (UAE) for uterine fibroids according to FIGO classification: a single-center experience.

This study aims to retrospectively evaluate the outcomes of uterine artery embolization (UAE) for uterine fibroids (UFs), specifically submucosal UFs, according to the International Federation ofGynecologyand Obstetrics (FIGO) classification of UFs. Forty-two patients with symptomatic UFs underwent UAE with Embosphere® between July 2016 and November 2021. MRI was performed before, at 3and 6months after the UAE. At each examination, the volume of UF was measured, and the percentage volume reduction rate (VRR) was calculated. The technical success rate (TSR), symptom improvement rate (SIR), regrowth rate (RR) after 6months, and adverse events (AEs) were examined; VRR was compared between patients with submucosal UFs (FIGO types 0-2, group A), those with submucosal contacts (FIGO type 3, group B), and those without submucosal UFs (FIGO types 4-7, group C). Statistical analysis was performed on the difference in VRR between groups A, B, and C at 3 and 6months after UAE. The relationship with hormone levels before UAE and VRR was evaluated. Thirty-seven of the 42 patients were evaluated. Overall, VRR was 37.0% at 3months and 52.1% at 6months; TSR, SIR, and RR were 100%, 95.2%, and 5.4%, respectively; VRR at 6months was 80.7% for group A (n = 7), 57.8% for group B (n = 13), and 37.1% for group C (n = 17). Significant differences were found between A and C (p < 0.001) and B and C (p = 0.023). Hormone levels before UAE had no effect on VRR. There was no significant AEs other than grade 3 pulmonary embolism in one patient. UAE was effective for submucosal FIGO types 0-3. UAE was especially useful as an option for FIGO type 3 with a low protrusion rate that is difficult to treat with transcervical resection.

Comparison of Recurrence and Quality of Life Between Myoma Embolization and Myomectomy.

Uterine myomas represent the most frequently diagnosed tumors amongwomen of childbearing age. Symptoms often include profuse menstrual bleeding, diminished quality of life, and in some cases, infertility. The size and position of the fibroids typically influencethe condition's manifestations. Moreover, symptomatology often varies depending on the fibroids' location. This investigation aimed to discern if there exists a significant correlation between life quality, reoccurrence rate, quality of life, and recurrence levels among patients who have undergone myomectomy and uterine fibroid embolization, respectively. A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted to compare the rates of recurrence and impacts on life quality between uterine fibroid embolization and myomectomy in women diagnosed with uterine myomas. Data were collected from 152 women who sought treatment at the Obstetrics and Gynecology clinic and also theInterventional Radiology clinicbetween January 2009 and January 2021. Thirteen participants were excluded due to the inability to maintain contact. The trial encompassed 76 patients who underwent myomectomy and 63 who had uterine fibroid embolization. In both groups, the life quality of 50 patients, five years postsurgery, was assessed using the UFS-QOL measure. Eligible participants were females between 20 and 40 years, with symptomatic Type 3-5 fibroids as per the FIGO classification, and with no comorbidities. Individuals under 20 or over 40 years, or those with fibroids classified as FIGO types 1,2,6,7,8, were not included. Other exclusion criteria included pregnancy status, abnormal endometrial biopsy results, abnormal smear tests, polyps, cancer, adenomyosis and coagulation disorders. The recurrence of fibroids was identified through symptomatology and diagnostic radiological methods. The recurrence rate was found to be 31.6% (n=24) for myomectomy patients and 14.3% (n=9) for those who underwent uterine fibroid embolization, with no statistically significant difference between the two groups (p > 0.05). The group subjected to myomectomy exhibited fewer symptoms, lower anxiety, and better physical mood scores. The myomectomy group displayed higher average anxiety scores (p<0.01). There were no significant disparities in control, consciousness, sexual function, or overall scores between the two groups. Symptoms and anxiety saw a marked reduction in the first postoperative year compared to the preoperative period (p<0.01). Compared to presurgery, energy, mood, awareness, and sexual function exhibited significant improvements in the first and fifth postoperative years (p<0.01). Our findings suggest a nonsignificant recurrence rate in the myomectomy group compared to the uterine artery embolization group. Notably, the decrease in symptom occurrence and anxiety following myomectomy was significantly favorable in terms of quality of life. While embolization was offered as a therapeutic option, myomectomy yielded more favorable results concerning quality of life.

Investigating the Underutilization of Uterine Fibroid Embolization by Surveying Practice Preferences of Obstetricians/Gynecologists

This study aimed to survey the practice preferences of obstetricians/gynecologists (OB/GYNs) that may be contributing to the underutilization of uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) in the treatment of symptomatic uterine fibroids (SUFs). A 22-question survey was created using the Qualtrics XM software and distributed to an obstetrics/gynecology–specific social media group of resident or attending OB/GYNs practicing in the United States. One hundred twelve responses met the inclusion criteria. For patients with SUFs, UFE was offered as a first-choice option <2% of the time. For patients with SUFs seeking to maintain fertility, UFE was recommended only 1% of the time after medical therapy (54%) and myomectomy (42%). Respondents reported lower rates of confidence (selecting “strongly agree” or “agree”) regarding risks and benefits of UFE (77%) in comparison with those of myomectomy (99%) or hysterectomy (100%). Because UFE was seldom recommended by respondents, further, more robust polling of OB/GYNs is warranted.

Use of Non-Contrast-Enhanced MR Angiography to Assess Recanalization after Uterine Artery Embolization

The purpose of this study was to examine the use of non-contrast-enhanced MR angiography (MRA) for assessing recanalization of uterine arteries (UAs) after uterine artery embolization (UAE) for symptomatic fibroids. Pre-procedural and follow-up unenhanced MRA images of 30 patients were reviewed, and the extent to which the UAs could be visualized was classified on a 4-point scale. An increase in the score between consecutive time points indicates that a previously inconspicuous segment of the UA became visible on follow-up images. Patients were divided into two groups according to the presence (or absence) of recanalization. The median UA visualization score at each follow-up was significantly lower than that at baseline (p < 0.01), but there was no significant difference between the scores of the follow-up images. Recanalization was detected in 63% (19/30) of patients. In these patients, the mean decrease in uterine and largest fibroid volume at 12 months after UAE was inferior to the mean decrease in patients for whom recanalization was not detected. Based on MRA assessment, recanalization after UAE occurred in 63% of patients but did not compromise the reduction in uterine and dominant fibroid volumes within 12 months after UAE.

Abstract No. 145 Resorbable Gelatin Microspheres versus Tris-Acryl Microspheres: Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Pain, Inflammatory Response and Embolic Effect after Uterine Artery Embolization for Symptomatic Fibroids

Abstract No. 145 Resorbable Gelatin Microspheres versus Tris-Acryl Microspheres: Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Pain, Inflammatory Response and Embolic Effect after Uterine Artery Embolization for Symptomatic Fibroids

Abstract No. 289 Modern Search Analytics: What Are Patients Asking ecan Uterine Artery Embolization?

Patients considering elective medical procedures such as uterine artery embolization (UAE) often turn to search engines. For each search term, Google distills frequently asked questions and links users to websites with answers. The purpose of this study is to characterize this data for UAE, a condition with a relatively younger (and perhaps more technologically literate) patient population, which may improve patient counseling and awareness. SearchResponse.io is a commercially available marketing database that has scraped the “People Also Ask” section of Google for questions, links, and popularity. For UAE, the database was queried for “UFE,” “uterine artery embolization,” and “uterine fibroid embolization.” Using established methods in the literature, questions were categorized using Rothwell’s classification (Fact, Policy, Value), and further divided into subcategories (Fact: Specific Activities & Restrictions, Recovery, Technical Details, Cost, Condition Details; Policy: Indications, Management of Risks & Complications; Value: Pain, Evaluation of Symptoms, Evaluation of Intervention). Websites were classified into five categories (Commercial, Academic, Medical Practice, Government, and Social Media). JAMA Benchmark scores were determined for all websites linked to assess credibility. Two reviewers performed the classification; a third reviewer resolved discrepancies. 170 questions were extracted from 87 unique links at 54 unique domains. The most popular subcategories were recovery (45, 26.4%), evaluation of intervention (34, 20%), technical details (34, 20%), cost (19, 11.1%), specific activities and restrictions (15, 8.8%), pain (12, 7.1%), indications (6, 3.5%), condition details (4, 2.4%), evaluation of symptoms (1, 0.6%). The most common website types were academic (72, 42.4%), medical practice (45, 26.5%), government (33, 19.4%), commercial (15, 8.8%), social media (5, 2.9%). JAMA scores (0-4) were highest for government websites (mean score = 3.64), followed by commercial (2.33), academic (2.31), social media (2.0), and medical practice (1.89). Patients searching for UAE online were most interested in UAE recovery, value of UAE, and technical details. This may reflect the major appeal of UAE’s minimally invasive nature. While > 68% of websites linked to academic centers and medical practices, their associated JAMA benchmark scores were among the lowest. Accurate patient-facing information of UAE resources must be developed to empower patients to choose their optimal medical treatment.