Fibroids -- also known as myomas or leiomyomas -- are extremely common benign tumors of the uterus which can substantially impact quality of life. Symptoms can include heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding, pelvic cramps, urinary frequency or urgency, and infertility or pregnancy loss. According to the U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services, 25% of all women (16 million) suffer from fibroid symptoms, leading to 250,000 annual hysterectomies – a highly invasive surgery with many side effects. The problem is so widespread that a third of all U.S. women have undergone hysterectomy by age 60, with fibroids being the most common reason.

Uterine anatomy

• Watchful waiting (i.e. no treatment)
  • Most common approach, due to lack of palatable alternatives
  • Many women will suffer for years in hopes of avoiding a hysterectomy

• Hysterectomy (surgical removal of uterus)
  • Current "gold standard" for fibroid treatment
  • Highly invasive with 4-6 week recovery
  • Destroys fertility
  • Expensive

• Hormone therapy
  • Side effects include osteoporosis, hot flashes, et. al.
  • Fibroid symptoms return if drug is stopped
  • Expensive

• Myomectomy (surgical removal of fibroids)
  • Performed hysteroscopically or laparoscopically, depending upon fibroid location
  • Few gynecologists with requisite training
  • 2-4 weeks recovery
  • Expensive

• Uterine artery embolization
  • Requires involvement of a radiologist, and overnight hospital stay for pain control
  • Risks include reduced fertility and early menopause
  • 7-11 days recovery
  • Expensive

• MRI-guided HIFU treatment
  • Effective, but ...
  • Requires a radiologist, $2.5 million in equipment, and a dedicated facility
  • 3 hour procedure
  • Very expensive