[Non-invasive thermoablation of symptomatic uterine fibroids with magnetic resonance-guided high-energy ultrasound]

Radiologe. 2011 Jul;51(7):610-9. doi: 10.1007/s00117-010-2117-3.
[Article in German]

Abstract

Uterine fibroids are the most common benign tumors in postmenopausal women which can cause severe symptoms and considerably reduce the quality of life. Patients are requesting minimally invasive, organ-saving therapies increasingly more often and magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound is a promising new technology which even surpasses these requirements as it is a totally non-invasive approach. The possibility of real-time temperature mapping allows a safe and precise thermal ablation of uterine fibroids. The rate of adverse events is low and safety and efficiency have been proven in several clinical studies. Further studies will have to be carried out to demonstrate long-term success and comparability to the established therapies and clarify if focused ultrasound is a safe treatment for women with the desire for future pregnancy. The MR-guided focused ultrasound technique is an effective and gentle treatment for uterine fibroids and holds a great potential for further indications.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hyperthermia, Induced / methods*
  • Leiomyoma / diagnosis
  • Leiomyoma / therapy*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Middle Aged
  • Postmenopause
  • Surgery, Computer-Assisted / methods*
  • Ultrasonic Therapy / methods*
  • Uterine Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Uterine Neoplasms / therapy*