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Uterine FibroidsUterine fibroids - Treatmenet with the Exablate™ Procedure
Uterine fibroids are benign muscle tumors of the uterine wall that are present in approximately 20-30% of women. For many women, they have no symptoms. But when symptoms do occur, they can include heavy periods, prolonged periods, painful periods, and generalized pelvic pain. If the fibroids become large enough, they can cause additional symptoms such as pressure on the bladder or colon causing urinary symptoms or constipation. Additionally, they can cause abdominal enlargement mimicking weight gain or pregnancy. Traditionally, women who had significant symptoms from their fibroids required surgery for treatment. For those who no longer desired childbearing, a hysterectomy was performed. For those who desired future childbearing, the fibroids were removed with a surgical procedure called a myomectomy. Both procedures require general anesthesia (being put to sleep) in the operating room, incisions, and up to six weeks for recovery. A new procedure is now available for the treatment of fibroids that avoids surgical incisions and a prolonged recovery. It is called the Exablate™ procedure or MRI focused ultrasound. It involves using focused ultrasound, or sound waves, to destroy the fibroids. During the procedure, the patient lies on a table under a MRI machine. The MRI is used to map out the fibroids and to monitor the progress of the procedure. Sound waves are focused on the fibroids which are then treated. This involves several treatment cycles each called a sonication. Each sonication treats an area of the fibroid about the size of a jellybean and lasts up to 2 minutes. The larger the fibroid, the more sonications are needed for a complete treatment. Multiple fibroids can be treated in the same setting. A complete Exablate procedure typically takes about two hours. Most patients are able to return to normal activities the next day. Advantages of an Exablate™ procedure when compared to other options include:
The Exablate™ procedure is an alternative to a hysterectomy or myomectomy for uterine fibroids, but is not for everyone. As part of your evaluation, a MRI will be done to see if you are a candidate. Fiboids that are too large or located in certain areas cannot be treated. Most patients experience improvement in their symptoms within 2-3 months. If you suffer from fibroids, call 817-927-2229 today for a consultation or second opinion. Take the next step in improving your life. Learn more about the Exablate™ procedure at: http://www.sightlinehealth.com/fibroids.html
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