Our Summary

This research paper details the long-term results of a study on a surgical procedure called Sonography Guided Transcervical Ablation (SONATA) in women suffering from uterine fibroids - non-cancerous growths in the uterus. The study followed 147 premenopausal women who underwent this treatment, which uses ultrasound to guide a device to the fibroids and uses heat to destroy them while preserving the uterus.

The study found that after three years, only about 9% of the women needed another surgery for heavy menstrual bleeding. The women also reported a significant decrease in the severity of their fibroid symptoms and an improvement in their quality of life and health, as well as their ability to work and be physically active. Nearly all of the women (94%) were satisfied with the treatment, and 88% reported reduced fibroid symptoms. Absenteeism from work due to fibroid symptoms dropped from nearly 3% to 1.4%, and impairment due to fibroids decreased from 51% to 12% for work, and from 58% to 14% for physical activity. There were no serious complications reported.

The results suggest that the SONATA procedure is a safe and effective treatment option for women with symptomatic uterine fibroids, providing long-term relief from symptoms and improving quality of life.

FAQs

  1. What is the Sonography Guided Transcervical Ablation (SONATA) procedure for uterine fibroids?
  2. What was the long-term effectiveness of the SONATA procedure according to the study?
  3. Were there any serious complications reported from the SONATA procedure in the study?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient considering uterine ablation that the SONATA procedure has been shown to be a safe and effective treatment option for women with symptomatic uterine fibroids. It can provide long-term relief from symptoms, improve quality of life, and allow for a faster return to work and physical activities. It is important to discuss the potential benefits and risks of the procedure with your doctor to determine if it is the right option for you.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended uterine ablation include those who have symptomatic uterine fibroids, which can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and other related symptoms. Women who have completed their childbearing and do not wish to have more children may also be good candidates for uterine ablation. Additionally, patients who have not responded well to other treatments for fibroids, such as medication or hormonal therapy, may be recommended for uterine ablation. It is important for patients to discuss their individual medical history and treatment goals with their healthcare provider to determine if uterine ablation is the right option for them.

Timeline

Before uterine ablation:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, frequent urination, and difficulty with bowel movements.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as ultrasound or MRI to confirm the presence of uterine fibroids.
  3. Patient discusses treatment options with their healthcare provider and decides to undergo uterine ablation.

After uterine ablation:

  1. Patient undergoes the SONATA procedure under ultrasound guidance, which destroys the fibroids while preserving the uterus.
  2. In the following weeks, the patient may experience cramping, spotting, and discharge as the body heals.
  3. Over the next few months, the patient experiences a significant decrease in fibroid symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain.
  4. After three years, the patient reports improved quality of life, reduced fibroid symptoms, and increased ability to work and be physically active.
  5. Only a small percentage of patients require another surgery for fibroid-related symptoms.
  6. Patient expresses satisfaction with the treatment and reports no serious complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the SONATA procedure and how does it work to treat uterine fibroids?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the SONATA procedure?
  3. How long does the procedure take and what is the recovery process like?
  4. What can I expect in terms of pain management during and after the procedure?
  5. How long can I expect the results of the SONATA procedure to last?
  6. Will I still be able to have children after undergoing the SONATA procedure?
  7. Are there any lifestyle changes or medications that I will need to take after the procedure?
  8. How often will I need follow-up appointments after the SONATA procedure?
  9. Are there any alternative treatment options for uterine fibroids that I should consider?
  10. What is the success rate of the SONATA procedure in treating uterine fibroids, based on your experience with other patients?

Reference

Authors: Lukes A, Green MA. Journal: J Gynecol Surg. 2020 Oct 1;36(5):228-233. doi: 10.1089/gyn.2020.0021. Epub 2020 Oct 1. PMID: 33061253