Explore Your Options for Fibroid Treatment September 9, 2024 Over 75% of women will develop fibroids during their childbearing years. These non-cancerous tumors grow within the uterine wall and can lead to uncomfortable symptoms, such as heavy menstrual bleeding, a constant feeling of fullness or bulk, frequent urination, pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, and constipation. “Despite the discomfort and impact on quality of life caused by fibroids, many women delay seeking treatment for 3 to 4 years, often due to uncertainty about their options or hope that the symptoms will improve on their own,” said Jessica Mitchell, MD, FACOG, with Samaritan Obstetrics, Gynecology & Midwifery in Corvallis. “Unfortunately, fibroids grow over time and their associated symptoms typically get worse over the reproductive years.” In contrast to traditional surgery, a less invasive procedure called Acessa offers significant benefits, including a quicker recovery and less discomfort overall. Acessa – How the Procedure Works “Acessa is an FDA-approved, minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure that uses cutting-edge technology,” said Dr. Mitchell. “Our patients typically experience rapid recovery within 4 to 5 days, minimal blood loss, and can avoid the large incisions associated with traditional surgery.” Here is how it works: First, the surgeon expands the abdomen with gas and inserts a camera and a specialized ultrasound through a few small incisions. The ultrasound is used to precisely locate the fibroids within the uterus. Next, a thin, array is inserted into the fibroid, and radiofrequency energy is used to precisely target and destroy the fibroid tissue. The Acessa procedure shrinks the fibroids by about 45 percent and changes the texture of the fibroids from a lacrosse ball to a marshmallow. As a result, patients experience a significant reduction in their symptoms. “One of the key advantages of Acessa is that it preserves the uterus, which is crucial for women who wish to maintain their fertility or avoid major surgery and recovery time,” said Dr. Mitchell. “Additionally, if a patient ever needs a hysterectomy in the future, having undergone Acessa can make that procedure simpler and safer by reducing the size of the fibroids and blood flow to the tumors. Treatment Traditional treatments for fibroids include medication, which can offer temporary relief, and various surgical options, including: Uterine Artery Embolization Cuts off blood supply to fibroids. This is less invasive than the other surgical options, but it is not ideal for preserving fertility and has variable results. Myomectomy Removes fibroids but keeps the uterus, which preserves fertility, but can allow fibroids to regrow. The procedure can involve significant blood loss and a requires a six-week recovery. Hysterectomy Removes the uterus, which eliminates fibroids and symptoms, but requires a six-week recovery and means a woman can no longer get pregnant. If you are dealing with fibroid symptoms, discuss the Acessa procedure with your health care provider to see if it is the right option for you. Or, contact Samaritan Obstetrics, Gynecology & Midwifery at 541-768-5300 to schedule a consultation.
