Uterine fibroid radiofrequency ablation
Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that uses high-energy thermal waves to soften and shrink uterine fibroids. This method of treatment enables the surgeon to significantly reduce the size of the fibroids and change the texture of the remaining tissue. This results in improvement or resolution of painful symptoms while preserving the uterus. The benefits of radiofrequency ablation include:
- Faster recovery and return to normal activity
- Reduction or elimination of fibroid related symptoms
- Protection of healthy tissue, including the uterus and ovaries
- No premature menopause
Uterine radiofrequency ablation can be performed either laparoscopically, in most cases with two small incisions, or transcervically through the vagina.
Many issues impact the treatment option(s) for which a patient may be an appropriate candidate. Some of these things include:
- Whether or not you are having symptoms from the fibroids
- The size of the fibroids
- Location of the fibroids
- Your age, if you are still planning to have children, and how close to menopause you might be
Alternatives to this procedure can include:
- Not having any treatment
- Using medication to manage bleeding
- Procedure to decrease blood supply to the fibroid (uterine artery embolization)
- Removal of fibroids (myomectomy)
- Removal of uterus (hysterectomy)