Our Summary

This research paper discusses a study conducted at Virgen de las Nieves University Hospital in Granada, Spain, involving 59 female patients with myomas (also known as uterine fibroids – noncancerous growths in the uterus). The study examined the effectiveness and safety of treating myomas with a minimally invasive technique called transvaginal radiofrequency ablation, whereby heat is used to destroy the fibroids.

The researchers kept track of various factors, including the patient’s age, type of myoma, pain experienced during the procedure, whether painkillers were needed, how long the procedure took, and any complications. They also recorded the total number of days of menstrual bleeding and days of heavy menstrual bleeding, and asked patients to complete a questionnaire about their symptoms and quality of life.

The size of the myomas was measured by ultrasound before the treatment, and then again 2, 6, and 12 months after the treatment. The results showed that the treatment significantly improved all the symptoms related to bleeding at all the measurement points, and that there was a significant improvement in the severity of symptoms 12 months after the procedure. On average, the size of the myomas was significantly reduced at 2, 6, and 12 months after treatment, with an average reduction of more than 80% in size at 12 months.

The researchers concluded that transvaginal radiofrequency ablation is an effective and safe method for treating uterine fibroids. They also found that the patient’s age and the initial size of the myoma were factors that could predict the outcome of the treatment.

FAQs

  1. What is transvaginal radiofrequency ablation and how does it work in treating uterine fibroids?
  2. How effective was the transvaginal radiofrequency ablation in reducing the size of the myomas as reported in the study?
  3. What factors did the researchers identify as predictors of the treatment outcome for uterine fibroids?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about uterine ablation is to discuss any concerns or questions they may have with their healthcare provider before undergoing the procedure. It is important for the patient to understand the potential risks and benefits of the treatment, as well as what to expect during and after the procedure. Additionally, patients should follow their doctor’s instructions for post-procedure care to ensure a successful recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended uterine ablation are those who suffer from heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and other symptoms caused by conditions such as uterine fibroids, endometriosis, or adenomyosis. These patients may have tried other treatments such as medication or hormone therapy without success, or they may wish to avoid more invasive surgical procedures like hysterectomy. Uterine ablation is usually recommended for patients who have completed their childbearing and do not wish to have more children, as it can affect fertility. Additionally, patients with certain medical conditions or anatomical factors may not be suitable candidates for uterine ablation. It is important for patients to discuss their individual circumstances with their healthcare provider to determine if uterine ablation is the right treatment option for them.

Timeline

Before uterine ablation:

  • Patient experiences symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure
  • Consults with a gynecologist who recommends uterine ablation as a treatment option
  • Undergoes pre-operative tests and evaluations to determine suitability for the procedure
  • Receives information about the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes

After uterine ablation:

  • Patient undergoes the minimally invasive transvaginal radiofrequency ablation procedure
  • Recovery period typically involves some discomfort and spotting
  • Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor symptoms and assess the effectiveness of the treatment
  • Patient experiences a significant reduction in symptoms related to bleeding and improvement in quality of life
  • The size of the myomas is monitored through ultrasound at regular intervals, showing a significant reduction in size over time
  • Patient reports improved symptoms and overall satisfaction with the treatment outcome

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and side effects of uterine ablation?
  2. How long does the procedure typically take?
  3. Will I need to stay in the hospital overnight or is it an outpatient procedure?
  4. How long is the recovery time after the procedure?
  5. Will I still be able to have children after undergoing uterine ablation?
  6. Are there any long-term effects of uterine ablation on my menstrual cycle or fertility?
  7. How often do I need to follow up with you after the procedure?
  8. Are there any lifestyle changes I should make to improve the effectiveness of the treatment?
  9. What are the chances of the fibroids recurring after the procedure?
  10. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that I should consider before deciding on uterine ablation?

Reference

Authors: Santalla-Hernández Á, Naveiro-Fuentes M, Benito-Villena R, López-Criado MS, González-Paredes A, Fernández-Parra J. Journal: J Minim Invasive Gynecol. 2022 Jun;29(6):743-752. doi: 10.1016/j.jmig.2022.01.011. Epub 2022 Jan 26. PMID: 35091094