High-intensity Focused Ultrasound for the Treatment of Fibroids: A Single-center Experience in Singapore

OBJECTIVES: Uterine fibroids and adenomyosis are common gynecological conditions that often require surgical treatment. Minimally invasive interventions such as ultrasound-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound (USgHIFU) are gaining popularity as they avoid surgical morbidity and conserve the uterus. We present a single-center experience on the use of USgHIFU for the treatment of fibroids and adenomyosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a retrospective study of 167 patients who underwent USgHIFU for uterine fibroids and adenomyosis between July 2018 and December 2020. Relevant demographic data and pre- and post-intervention fibroid volume, symptom severity scores (SSS), and health-related quality of life (QOL) scores were collected and compared. The paired t-test or Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare the difference before and after treatment. P < 0.001 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: One hundred and sixty-seven patients with fibroids or adenomyosis were included in this study. The mean age of the cohort was 42-year-old. USgHIFU treatment led to a reduction in mean fibroid volume, improvement in SSS, and health-related QOL scores. The average reduction in mean fibroid volume was 68% and 75% at 6 and 12 months, respectively. There was a significant reduction in SSS (46.9 [pre] vs. 15.6 [post], P < 0.001) and improvement in health-related QOL scores at 6 months (58 [pre] vs. 86 [post], P < 0.001). The re-intervention rate following USgHIFU was 7.7% and successful pregnancy post USgHIFU was reported in 6 patients. CONCLUSION: USgHIFU is safe and effective. In women who desire fertility or are not suitable for surgery, it is a good alternative option. It should be included in the armamentarium for the treatment of uterine fibroids and adenomyosis.