High intensity focused ultrasound treatment for diffuse uterine leiomyomatosis: a feasibility study

Abstract

Objective To investigate the safety and efficacy of high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) treatment for diffuse uterine leiomyomatosis (DUL). Methods Eight patients with DUL were admitted to the Department of Gynecology of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital and underwent HIFU treatment. MRI was performed before and one day after HIFU treatment for the evaluation of lesion ablation. The uterine size was measured at 3-8 months after HIFU ablation. The menstrual volume score and serum levels of hemoglobin and CA-125 were measured pre-HIFU ablation and 12-36 months post-HIFU ablation. Results After an average of 5.9 months of follow-up after HIFU treatment, an average uterine volume reduction of 67.6% was observed. Menstruation returned to normal in all patients, and their serum HGB and CA-125 levels also returned to normal after an average of 19.1 months of clinical follow-up. The quality of life of all patients improved significantly. Conclusion HIFU treatment is safe and effective in the treatment of patients with DUL.