Treatment Option 3: Emobilization of the Uterine Artery
In this procedure, blood flow is blocked to the fibroid, which causes the fibroid to shrink in size and eventually die. The procedure is conducted using a catheter. The catheter is placed into the uterine arteries and particles which are very small in size are injected which causes the blocked blood flow to the tumor. This procedure is more ideal for a woman who has already had children and does not plan to have additional kids.
Treatment Option 4: MRI-Guided Ultrasound
For this option, physicians use ultrasound waves which are high focused and convert to heat to destroy the tumor. The radio waves are guided by the MRI to where the tumors exist in the uterus and pelvic region. During this procedure, you are sedated and placed inside an MRI machine. This procedure generally takes about three hours. The heat destroys the tumor, but this may involve multiple sessions. For women who have completed childbearing, this may be a good alternative. If a woman is looking to have children, this procedure has some risks, including potential damage to other organs and fertility issues for future pregnancies.
Treatment Option 5: Ongoing Medical Monitoring of the Fibroids
If you decide you do not want to undergo a surgical procedure, or do not have many symptoms associated with your fibroids, monitoring may be the choice for you. This is a procedure when you check your fibroids for size and the number of them at regular intervals. This is done using a vaginal ultrasound exam along with a blood test for anemia. Monitoring for anemia is important because when you become anemic, it means you are not developing enough healthy red blood cells. This option can work if your fibroids are not manifesting many symptoms, if a woman is done having children or does not want children, or when you are near menopause.
Whatever you decide to do for your fibroid treatment, take into consideration your fertility, the downtime you want to experience with each surgical procedure and the outcome you want. Once you factor in these considerations, you will make an informed decision and one that suits you best.
Know Your Fibroid Treatment Options was originally published on blackdoctor.org
