Our Summary

This study looked at the use of a treatment called transcervical fibroid ablation (TFA) in dealing with two types of uterine fibroids - submucous and large fibroids. The research used data from two clinical trials and the Sonata system, a specific tool for TFA.

The results showed that, after the treatment, most women with either type of fibroid saw a decrease in menstrual bleeding within three months. The study also found that the treatment led to a significant improvement in overall symptoms and quality of life over a year.

For larger fibroids, the researchers used MRI scans to map the fibroids and found that the treatment reduced the size of the fibroids by about 68% on average. The need for further surgery after the treatment was also very low.

In simple terms, the study suggests that TFA using the Sonata system is an effective treatment for large and submucous uterine fibroids, especially when other treatments are not suitable.

FAQs

  1. What is transcervical fibroid ablation (TFA) and what types of uterine fibroids can it treat?
  2. What were the results of the study on the effectiveness of TFA using the Sonata system?
  3. Does the use of TFA with the Sonata system eliminate the need for further surgery for large uterine fibroids?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about uterine ablation is to discuss the potential benefits and risks of the procedure before making a decision. It is important to have a thorough understanding of the treatment options available and to choose the one that best fits your individual needs and goals. Additionally, it is important to follow up with your doctor regularly after the procedure to monitor your recovery and any potential complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended uterine ablation are those who suffer from heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and other symptoms caused by uterine fibroids. Uterine ablation may be recommended for women who have not responded well to other treatments such as medication or hormonal therapy, or who wish to avoid a hysterectomy. It may also be recommended for women who are not planning to have children in the future.

Timeline

Timeline before uterine ablation:

  • Patient experiences symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and frequent urination.
  • Patient undergoes a physical exam, ultrasound, and possibly an MRI to diagnose uterine fibroids.
  • Treatment options such as medication, hormonal therapy, or minimally invasive procedures are discussed with the patient.
  • If other treatments are not effective or suitable, the patient may be recommended for uterine ablation.

Timeline after uterine ablation:

  • Patient undergoes the TFA procedure using the Sonata system.
  • Within three months, the patient experiences a decrease in menstrual bleeding.
  • Over the course of a year, the patient sees a significant improvement in overall symptoms and quality of life.
  • For larger fibroids, MRI scans show a reduction in size by about 68% on average.
  • The need for further surgery after the treatment is low.
  • Patient follows up with their healthcare provider for monitoring and any additional care as needed.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about uterine ablation include:

  1. What is uterine ablation and how does it work?
  2. Am I a candidate for uterine ablation, and if not, what alternative treatments are available?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with uterine ablation?
  4. How long does the procedure take, and what is the recovery time?
  5. Will I still be able to have children after undergoing uterine ablation?
  6. How long will the results of the treatment last?
  7. What follow-up care will be necessary after the procedure?
  8. Are there any lifestyle changes or restrictions I need to adhere to after uterine ablation?
  9. What is the success rate of uterine ablation for my specific condition?
  10. Are there any potential side effects or long-term effects I should be aware of?

Reference

Authors: Shifrin G, Engelhardt M, Gee P, Pschadka G. Journal: Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2021 Oct;155(1):79-85. doi: 10.1002/ijgo.13638. Epub 2021 Mar 17. PMID: 33544889