Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are typically benign growths composed of muscle and tissue that develop within or on the uterine wall. These growths the most prevalent non-malignant tumors emerging between the ages of 30 and 50, although they can occur at any stage of life.
The exact cause remains uncertain, yet healthcare experts believe that the involvement of estrogen and progesterone hormones contributes to the development of fibroids. Additionally, genetics and growth factors may also have a role in this process. The majority of fibroids manifest in individuals of reproductive age. Research suggests that fibroids tend to increase in size when hormone levels are elevated, such as during pregnancy, and shrink when hormone levels decrease, such as after menopause.
In certain cases, a combination of non-surgical and surgical treatments may provide a more effective approach to alleviating fibroid symptoms in women. If you are experiencing symptoms and wish to explore both surgical and non-surgical treatment options, we encourage you to arrange a consultation at one of our offices in Westlake, Beachwood or Middlefield.
Symptoms may include:
Depending on their size and location, fibroids can lead to abdominal swelling, giving the appearance of pregnancy, even when not pregnant.
As most uterine fibroids are benign, the initial approach for asymptomatic cases is usually monitoring the growth of these fibroids. When symptoms appear, the treatment typically involves specific medications aimed at alleviating the symptoms by regulating hormonal fluctuations. Nevertheless, if non-surgical interventions prove ineffective, the next stage involves minimally invasive or traditional surgical procedures.
The Acessa laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation (Lap-RFA) is a minimally invasive procedure that treats uterine fibroids in Cleveland, aimed at relieving symptoms. This procedure involves small abdominal incisions and precise delivery of heat into the fibroid through a slender radiofrequency needle, resulting in gradual shrinkage over time. Patients experience significantly shorter recovery times compared to other invasive fibroid treatments like myomectomies. Remarkably, 94% of women treated reported a reduction in their symptoms following the Acessa procedure. Typically, patients go home on the same day as the surgery.
The Acessa system provides simultaneous real-time visualization of both the laparoscopic camera view and the ultrasound view. The ultrasound probe aids in accurately pinpointing the fibroids, while the small radiofrequency handpiece is introduced into the fibroid to administer heat and induce shrinkage. This cycle is repeated until each designated fibroid is successfully treated. Over time, the treated fibroid tissue gradually softens and reduces in size, resulting in the alleviation of fibroid-related symptoms. The recovery period is generally 1 to 2 weeks.
Arrange your consultation today to determine whether Acessa uterine fibroid treatment in Cleveland is a suitable option for you.
Myomectomy, a surgical procedure to remove uterine fibroids, comes in three main types: open myomectomy (also known as abdominal myomectomy), minimally invasive laparoscopic or robotic myomectomy, and hysteroscopic myomectomy. The selection of the appropriate myomectomy method depends on several factors, including the size and number of fibroids and their specific location within the uterus. Our surgeons assess these factors to establish the most suitable surgical approach for addressing uterine fibroids.
Depending on the type of myomectomy performed, the recovery period varies from days to weeks, and may result in a higher risk of requiring a C-section with subsequent deliveries if pregnancy is desired.
Even in the absence of noticeable fibroid symptoms, these growths can potentially have adverse effects on the reproductive system and overall well-being. The most appropriate treatment choice is contingent on factors such as the size, location, and severity of symptoms associated with the fibroids. We encourage you to arrange a consultation at one of our offices in Westlake, Beachwood or Middlefield for complete assessment of uterine fibroids in Cleveland.