Surgical Management of Symptomatic Fibroids
Fibroids are noncancerous uterine growths that typically develop during childbearing years and are not usually associated with an increased risk of uterine cancer. As many as 3 out of 4 women have uterine fibroids at some point, but most are unaware due to lack of symptoms.
When fibroids become symptomatic, a doctor will often first recommend watchful waiting or medication, but surgery can be recommended when:
- Your quality of life is negatively impacted by fibroid pressure or pain
- Fibroid growth occurs later in age, following menopause
- You have heavy uterine bleeding and/or anemia that does not resolve after months of birth control hormones/NSAID therapy.
- You have difficulty with getting pregnant or experience repeat miscarriages due to misshapen uterus from fibroids.
- Your fibroids cause urinary or bowel problems from pressure on the bladder, ureter, or bowel.
- Your doctor has determined that cancer may be present.
What are the surgical options for fibroids?
The two major choices for surgical treatment of fibroids are myomectomy and hysterectomy. In a myomectomy, your fibroids are removed and your uterus is reconstructed. In a hysterectomy, the uterus is removed entirely. While only hysterectomy prevents regrowth of fibroids, it is not an option for women who wish to get pregnant. Your doctor may recommend myomectomy over hysterectomy if you want to get pregnant, wish to keep your uterus, or if he or she believes your fertility is being negatively affected by uterine fibroids.
Myomectomy is typically performed as a minimally invasive procedure. Procedure choice mainly depends on size, location, number of fibroids, and symptoms. Dr. Ghozland can perform this procedure laparoscopically or robotically, enabling his patients to return home the same day as the procedure.
What is right for me?
Myomectomy is your one surgical option if you wish to get pregnant or keep your uterus. It is best to discuss all options with a doctor if you’re experiencing symptoms associated with uterine fibroids. Call Dr. Ghozland’s office at 310-393-9359 to obtain a professional diagnosis and to review the best treatment options for you.