Application of transabdominal ultrasound- and laparoscopy-guided percutaneous microwave ablation for treating uterine fibroids: 24-month follow-up outcomes.

PURPOSE: To determine the ablation efficacy of transabdominal ultrasound- and laparoscopy-guided percutaneous microwave ablation (PMWA), to investigate whether the risk of damage to adjacent organs and endometrium due to this technique can be reduced or even avoided. We also evaluated the clinical efficacy of this technique in the treatment of uterine fibroids of different sizes and at different locations over a 24-month follow-up period.

METHODS

This study included 50 patients with uterine fibroids who underwent transabdominal ultrasound- and laparoscopy-guided PMWA from August 2018 to July 2020. Lesions were confirmed by pathology. The technical efficacy and complications of PMWA were assessed. The lesion diameter, lesion volume, lesion location, and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) features before PMWA and within 24 h after PMWA were recorded. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used for follow-up at 3 and 6 months after PMWA. Transvaginal ultrasound was used for follow-up at 24 months after PMWA.

RESULTS

A total of 50 patients with uterine fibroids received treatment. The median ablation rate of uterine fibroids was 97.21%. The mean lesion volume reduction rates were 32.63%, 57.26%, and 92.64% at 3, 6, and 24 months after treatment, respectively. The size and location of uterine fibroids did not significantly affect the ablation rate and the rate of lesion volume reduction. No major complication was found during and after the procedure.

CONCLUSION

Transabdominal ultrasound- and laparoscopy-guided PMWA can be utilized to safely enhance the ablation rate while minimizing ablation time and avoiding harm to adjacent organs and the endometrium. This technique is applicable for treating uterine fibroids of different sizes and at varying locations.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ChiCTR-IPR-17011910, and date of trial registration: 08/07/2017.