Benign uterine tumors, such as fibroids and adenomyosis, often cause symptoms that can interfere with a woman’s quality of life, including abdominal pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and fertility problems. Today, treatment does not always require open surgery.
At Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri, High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) technology is available to precisely destroy uterine tumor tissue using high-intensity ultrasound waves. This procedure is performed without incisions, without surgery, and without causing bleeding, allowing patients to undergo treatment more comfortably with minimal risk of complications.
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What Is HIFU Technology?
HIFU is a non-invasive therapy that uses high-intensity sound waves to generate heat at a specific point, effectively destroying fibroid tissue with precision.
According to dr. Gracia Merryane R.G Rauw, Sp.OG, an obstetrician and gynecologist specializing in HIFU at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri:
“HIFU is a non-invasive technology that uses high-intensity sound waves to heat and destroy fibroid tissue without incisions, without radiation, and without removing the uterus.”
Compared to conventional surgery, this procedure does not require surgical cuts, does not leave external wounds, and does not involve radiation exposure. The uterus is preserved, making it a suitable option for women who still plan to have children.
How Is the HIFU Procedure Performed?
The HIFU procedure for treating uterine fibroids is carried out through structured and carefully controlled steps using advanced imaging technology. Here is an overview of the process:
- The patient lies in a prone position (on the stomach) on a special treatment table designed for HIFU.
- The HIFU device emits ultrasound waves from beneath the patient’s body toward the targeted area.
- The doctor identifies and maps the fibroid location using an imaging system integrated with the HIFU machine.
- High-intensity ultrasound waves are precisely focused on the fibroid tissue to heat and gradually destroy it without damaging surrounding healthy tissue.
- During the procedure, the patient receives light anesthesia (sedation) to remain comfortable while staying conscious and able to communicate with the medical team.
- After the procedure, there are no incisions or surgical scars on the patient’s body.
- Most patients can go home the same day or within about one day, with a much faster recovery compared to conventional surgery.
Overall, this procedure is designed to provide optimal results with minimal risk while ensuring patient comfort throughout the treatment process.
Advantages of HIFU for Treating Fibroids
HIFU technology offers several benefits in managing uterine fibroids, including:
- No surgical incisions
- Minimal pain
- No radiation exposure
- The uterus is preserved
- Very low risk of bleeding
- Faster recovery time
- Patients can return to daily activities sooner
“This method is safe because it minimizes bleeding, and patients can recover faster and return to their activities,” emphasized dr. Gracia.
With this non-invasive approach, patients can avoid the risks commonly associated with open surgery, such as wound infections or heavy bleeding.
FAQ About HIFU for Treating Uterine Tumors
1. Is the HIFU procedure painful?
HIFU for uterine fibroids is generally well tolerated and considered a low-pain, non-invasive alternative to surgery. It is usually performed under light sedation to keep patients comfortable.
While not completely painless, most discomfort is described as temporary pelvic cramping. In rare cases, minor skin burns or nerve irritation may occur, but these typically subside within a few days.
2. Can HIFU be performed on women who want to become pregnant?
HIFU is safe for women who wish to conceive because it does not require removal of the uterus.
“In ChongQing, this fibroid-destroying machine has been used for more than 10 years for HIFU, and many patients have successfully had their fibroids treated without incisions. Importantly, many patients have even been able to become pregnant afterward. Initially, their fibroids blocked the birth canal and made it difficult to conceive. But after undergoing HIFU treatment, they were able to achieve pregnancy more quickly,” explained dr. Gracia.
3. How long is the recovery time after HIFU?
Recovery after HIFU treatment for uterine tumors such as fibroids is generally short. Most patients can go home the same day and resume light activities within 1–2 days.
The gradual shrinkage of fibroid tissue typically occurs over approximately 3–6 months.
4. How much does HIFU treatment for uterine tumors cost at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri?
The cost of fibroid treatment at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri starts from IDR 90,000,000 (ninety million rupiah).
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