Fibroids - quickly symptom-free thanks to a gentle procedure

These benign tumours in the uterus typically occur in women of childbearing age. "Over 60% of women between 45 and 50 have fibroids. Many don't even notice them because they are asymptomatic," explains Dr Anzhela Albrecht, senior physician at the Department of Gynaecology at Bethesda Hospital. For some
For some women, however, these muscle nodules are very unpleasant because they can lead to heavy bleeding, intermenstrual bleeding, abdominal cramps or an unfulfilled desire to have children. Many sufferers
report a reduction in performance and severe fatigue.
If the woman is symptom-free, there is usually no need for treatment. However, if myoma sufferers experience heavy and prolonged bleeding, which can lead to anaemia, treatment is indicated. Thanks to a new therapy method, these benign lumps can now be gently eliminated.

Ultrasound and radio frequency energy

Thanks to a new treatment method, these benign lumps can now be gently eliminated. Bethesda Hospital is the only hospital in north-western Switzerland and one of only six centres in Switzerland to use this procedure. Sonata therapy is an innovative surgical method that does not involve the use of a scalpel. Dr Albrecht explains how it works: "We insert a probe into the uterus via the vagina. At the end is an ultrasound probe with which we can visualise one or more fibroids. We use radiofrequency energy to obliterate them so that they shrink over time and the symptoms disappear." This gentle procedure can be carried out under a light and well-tolerated general or partial anaesthetic. The recovery phase is much shorter compared to surgical removal. "After two to three days of recovery, you are fit again. This method has advantages for many women, not least because they can return to work quickly. After a laparoscopy or hysterectomy, recovery takes much longer."

Symptom-free after a short time

The success rate is also impressive. After just three months, nine out of ten women report suffering from significantly less bleeding. The fibroids then continue to shrink so that the symptoms disappear more and more. When asked whether new fibroids can form again, the experienced gynaecologist answers: "There can be no new lumps in the same position, but there can be in other places. If you absolutely don't want any more fibroids, you would have to remove the uterus. However, most women want to keep the organ in such cases." Time plays into the hands of those affected
time plays into the hands of those affected, because with the menopause the fibroids shrink again and often disappear completely, so that the symptoms also subside.

Diagnose Talk programme from 28.03.2022