Treat Uterine Fibroids Without Removing the Uterus: Introducing HIFU Technology at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri

Uterine fibroids are growths made of muscle and connective tissue that develop in or on the wall of the uterus. They are common among women and are generally benign, meaning they are not cancerous.

Although they are not cancerous, uterine fibroids can still cause symptoms that interfere with daily activities. These may include pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and irregular vaginal bleeding. The severity of symptoms can vary depending on the size, number, and location of the fibroids in the uterus.

Uterine fibroids can now be treated using High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) technology, available at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri. This technology uses high-intensity sound waves focused on fibroid tissue to destroy it without surgical incisions. As a result, HIFU may be an option for treating uterine fibroids without undergoing a hysterectomy, depending on the patient’s condition and the doctor’s evaluation.

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Learn More About HIFU: Treating Fibroids Without Removing the Uterus

In certain cases, uterine fibroids may require treatment through a hysterectomy, or surgical removal of the uterus, particularly when they cause severe symptoms or other treatments have not produced the expected results. However, other treatment options may be considered depending on the patient’s condition, including HIFU.

HIFU is a medical procedure that uses ultrasound waves to treat certain conditions, including uterine fibroids. It is considered a minimally invasive treatment because it does not require surgical incisions like conventional surgery.

How HIFU Technology Works to Treat Uterine Fibroids

Unlike conventional ultrasound (USG), which produces images of internal organs and soft tissues, HIFU uses high-intensity sound waves to damage targeted tissue. Here’s how it works:

Focusing sound waves on fibroid tissue. HIFU uses ultrasound waves concentrated on the area of the fibroid that needs treatment. The process is similar to using a magnifying glass to focus sunlight on a single point.
Increasing the temperature of the targeted tissue. Concentrated sound-wave energy raises the temperature of the fibroid tissue, causing tissue damage through a process called ablation.
Minimizing damage to surrounding tissue. Sound waves can pass through other tissue layers, such as the skin, without damaging them before reaching the targeted area.
Using imaging guidance. During the procedure, the doctor may use ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to help guide the treatment and assess and monitor the process.

Through this mechanism, HIFU may be an option for treating uterine fibroids without surgically removing the uterus. However, a doctor must assess whether the treatment is suitable based on the size and location of the fibroids, the patient’s symptoms, and their overall health.

Benefits of HIFU for Treating Fibroids Without Removing the Uterus

HIFU technology offers several potential benefits when treating uterine fibroids. These include:

No surgical incisions required. HIFU is a non-invasive procedure that does not require incisions in the body. It also does not use ionizing radiation, unlike certain other medical procedures.
Targets fibroid tissue specifically. Ultrasound waves are focused on the targeted tissue, helping minimize damage to the surrounding healthy tissue.
Relatively short recovery time. HIFU can generally be performed without hospitalization. Patients may also be able to return to work or resume daily activities within a few days, depending on their individual condition.

These benefits make HIFU a potential alternative for treating uterine fibroids without surgically removing the uterus. However, not all fibroids are suitable for this method. A doctor must evaluate the patient’s condition first to determine the most appropriate treatment.

Don’t Ignore These Often-Overlooked Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids do not always cause symptoms, so some women may be unaware that they have them. When symptoms occur, they can vary depending on the size and location of the fibroids. The following are some symptoms to watch for:

Heavy or painful periods. Fibroids can cause heavier menstrual bleeding or menstrual cramps that interfere with daily activities.
Abdominal and lower back pain. Fibroids may cause discomfort or pain in the abdomen or lower back.
Frequent urination. Some fibroids can press against the bladder, making a person feel the need to urinate more frequently, experience a sudden urge to urinate, or have difficulty controlling urination.
Bowel problems. Pressure from fibroids on nearby organs can cause bloating, constipation, or pain during bowel movements.
Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse. This may occur in some women with fibroids, depending on their size and location.
Difficulty becoming pregnant. In certain cases, fibroids can affect fertility or make it more difficult to become pregnant, particularly if they distort the uterine cavity.

If you experience these symptoms, especially heavy menstrual bleeding or recurring pain, consult an obstetrician and gynecologist (OB-GYN). Further examinations, such as an ultrasound, can help detect fibroids and determine the appropriate treatment.

Are Uterine Fibroids Dangerous if Left Untreated?

Uterine fibroids are generally benign, but that does not mean they should always be ignored. If they cause symptoms and are not appropriately managed, fibroids can lead to complications, particularly when they cause excessive bleeding or put pressure on nearby organs.

The following are some potential complications of uterine fibroids to be aware of:

Iron-deficiency anemia. Heavy menstrual bleeding caused by fibroids can lead to significant blood loss, reducing the body’s iron and hemoglobin levels.
Urinary tract problems. Large fibroids can press against the bladder, causing difficulty urinating, difficulty holding urine, or an increased risk of urinary tract infections.
Fertility and pregnancy complications. In certain cases, fibroids can make it more difficult to become pregnant or increase the risk of miscarriage. However, these complications are relatively uncommon and depend on the size and location of the fibroids.

Facilities for Out-of-Town and International Patients at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri

Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri provides a range of support facilities to ensure greater comfort for patients traveling from other cities or from abroad:

VIP transportation: Pickup services from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, train stations, or seaports to the hospital in comfortable vehicles, accompanied by a Patient Experience Officer (PEO).
Medical ambulance pickup: Specialized pickup services for patients with specific medical needs from arrival points, including airports, train stations, and seaports. These services include medical equipment and assistance from professional healthcare personnel.
Accommodation (Sleep Hub and apartments): Comfortable accommodation for families accompanying patients, located on the eighth floor of the Mandaya Royal Puri building, as well as nearby apartment options.
International Patient Relations: Dedicated assistance for international patients, including medical coordination, interpretation, and administrative support. For information and assistance, contact International Patient Relations at 021 5092 8888 or email [email protected].

To make your visit to Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri easier, use the WhatsApp chat feature, Book Appointment, or the Care Dokter app, available for download on Google Play and the App Store. These options help you arrange visits, check queue numbers, and access other useful information.

The information provided on this page is intended for educational purposes and general reference. It does not represent the full range of medical services that each doctor may provide. To determine the most appropriate treatment for your health condition, we recommend consulting the relevant doctor directly.

If you have questions, suggestions, or need further information, please contact our call center at 0811-1900-2000.