What are newer methods to treat fibroids?

DESTRUCTION OF THE MYOMAS

A new procedure has been designed to treat the myomas by destroying their blood supply instead of removing them.
The procedure is called myolysis, is done through a laparoscope.
In this procedure, a laser fiber, or more commonly an electrical device, is placed into the fibroid through the laparoscope, and is used to coagulate the myoma or the blood vessels feeding the myoma.
The dead tissue is then gradually replaced with scar tissue.
There are several disadvantages to the procedure. Since no sample of the fibroid is sent to the lab, for a biopsy, in the rare case of malignancy may not be diagnosed.
Frequently the procedure causes adhesions (organs such as intestines stick to the uterus), which could cause problems later on (See at the topic of adhesions on this web site.)

As with any new procedure, there is no long term information on what will happen over time.

UTERINE ARTERY EMBOLIZATION

Uterine artery embolization (UAE) is the newest treatment for fibroids.
This procedure involves placing a small catheter into an artery in the groin and directing it to the blood supply of the fibroids.
Little plugs are injected through the catheter to block these arteries.
This causes the fibroids to shrink, although there may be pain for a short time afterwards requiring the use of narcotics.

It is important to seek evaluation from physicians knowledgeable in both embolization and traditional methods of treatment before deciding on treatment.
It is also essential to know that pregnancy after UAE is not recommended and that there is a significant distortion of the lining of the uterus leading to implantation abnormalities and possible miscarriage or long term infertility.
The pain after a UAE is sometimes greater than that after a surgery for fibroids.