Laparoscopic radiofrequency volumetric thermal ablation of uterine myomas with 12 months of follow-up

ObjectiveTo confirm the results of an earlier study assessing the safety and efficacy of a laparoscopic radiofrequency volumetric thermal ablation (RFVTA) system among women with symptomatic myomas.MethodsIn a prospective study at the Hospital of Francisco Marroquin University, Guatemala City, consecutive premenopausal women with symptomatic myomas seeking uterine-sparing treatment were enrolled between August 2008 and July 2011. The women were treated by RFVTA. Uterine fibroid symptom and health-related quality-of-life (UFS-QOL) questionnaires were completed at 0, 3, 6, and 12 months.ResultsAmong 114 women screened, 36 were enrolled (ages 33–51 years), and 35 were followed for 12 months. Symptom severity scores reduced significantly (P < 0.05): baseline (63.3), 3 months (23.1), 6 months (15.4), 12 months (9.6). Health-related quality-of-life scores improved significantly (P < 0.05): baseline (37.3), 3 months (79.9), 6 months (85.1), 12 months (87.7). The mean ± SD difference in uterine volume from baseline (215.2 ± 117.9 cm3) to 12 months (167.0 ± 120.8 cm3) was 48.2 cm3 (95% CI: − 22.8 to 119.2; P = 0.192). Nine adverse events among 8 individuals were minor and unrelated to the procedure.ConclusionRFVTA of fibroids resulted in significantly improved symptom severity and quality-of-life scores and provides an outpatient uterine-sparing option for treatment of myomas.