Ultrasound-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound treatment for uterine fibroid & adenomyosis: A single center experience from the Republic of Korea

Abstract

ObjectivesThis study aimed to assess the therapeutic outcomes of patients with uterine fibroid or adenomyosis treated by ultrasound-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound (USgHIFU) ablation at Incheon Christian Hospital, Korea. MethodsThis study included 618 patients, of which 272 suffered from uterine fibroid and 346 suffered from adenomyosis. Treatment was administrated using the Model Haifu JC Focused Ultrasound Tumor Therapeutic System (Chongqing Haifu Technology, Chongqing, China) under real-time ultrasound guidance. A follow-up was conducted on volume change as well as on symptom improvement using the Symptom Severity Score (SSS) and Uterine Fibroid Symptom and Quality of Life (UFS–QOL) after treatment. ResultThe uterine fibroid volume reduction rates (%) were 58.08%, 66.18%, and 77.59% at 3, 6, and 12months after treatment, respectively. The SSS reduction rates (%) were 55.58%, 52.76%, and 50.39% by 3, 6, and 12months, respectively. The UFS–QOL score increasing rates (%) were 42.66%, 43.50%, and 43.45% by 3, 6, and 12months, respectively. The uterine volume reduction rates (%) for adenomyosis were 43.99%, 47.01%, and 53.98% by 3, 6, and 12months, respectively. The SSS reduction rates (%) for adenomyosis were 55.61%, 52.38%, and 57.98% by 3, 6, and 12months, respectively. The UFS–QOL score increasing rates (%) for adenomyosis UFS–QOL score were 80.06%, 69.39%, and 85.07% by 3, 6, and 12months, respectively. ConclusionWe conclude that USgHIFU treatment for uterine fibroid and adenomyosis is an effective non-invasive therapy via the assessment of fibroid volume reduction, symptom improvement, UFS–QOL score increase, and acceptable level of side effects. Although preliminary experience of HIFU is encouraging, well-designed prospective trials and more clinical experiences are needed to ascertain the efficacy and safety of this new treatment.