Minimally Invasive Procedure for Uterine Fibroids Can Lessen Discomfort and Shorten Recovery Time

7/19/2023

TUCSON, AZ (July 19, 2023) – Uterine fibroids – common, but sometimes painful non-cancerous growths – were once often treated with a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus).

However, more recently, many of the 35 million American women experiencing pain or heavy periods caused by fibroids can choose a less-invasive (and much less life-altering) outpatient procedure called radiofrequency ablation.

During this procedure, a doctor makes two small incisions, and then uses a laparoscopic camera and real-time ultrasound view to identify and treat fibroids inside and outside the uterine walls. Fibroid tissue is destroyed with a thin needle; controlled radiofrequency energy; and heat.

Patients usually experience minimal discomfort, and are able to get back to their daily life within 4-5 days.

“A considerable percentage of women will experience uterine fibroids by the age of 50,” said Jessica Serrano-Rodriguez, M.D., who performs ablation procedures at Northwest Women’s Health at Houghton. “Unfortunately, the majority of these women will wait months or even years to seek treatment.”

A lack of awareness of minimally-invasive fibroid treatment options can result in a more difficult path than necessary for patients, added Carol Dehasse, M.D., an OB/GYN with Northwest Healthcare.

“There is no need to live with the pain and discomfort of uterine fibroids,” she said. “This minimally-invasive treatment option allows a woman to keep her uterus and return to daily life.”

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