Uterine fibroids are a common gynecological disease with a high incidence rate. They are a common benign gynecological tumor, characterized by menstrual abnormalities, abdominal masses, increased vaginal discharge, and lower abdominal bloating. Clinical statistical data shows that one in every five women over the age of 30 suffers from uterine fibroids. Faced with such a high incidence rate, we need to strengthen disease research and explore an effective treatment method. Surgery is an effective and rapid treatment for uterine fibroids. Do you know any surgical methods for treating uterine fibroids?
1、 The hazards of uterine fibroids
Uterine fibroids, also known as uterine smooth muscle tumors, are common benign tumors of the female reproductive organs. Most patients have no symptoms, and a small number may present with vaginal bleeding, palpable abdominal masses, compression, etc. If there is torsion or other conditions, it can cause pain. Multiple uterine fibroids are commonly seen in clinical practice, and are more common in women between the ages of 30 and 50. Currently, the cause of the disease is not yet clear, and it is believed that it may be related to high levels of estrogen. After the onset of the disease, it can lead to increased menstrual flow and prolonged menstruation. If the fibroids gradually grow, the uterus can become larger than three months pregnant, and at this time, abdominal masses can be felt. Some patients with intramural fibroids may increase the area of the uterine cavity, increase the secretion of endometrial glands, and lead to an increase in vaginal discharge. In addition, excessive uterine fibroids can also cause compression symptoms, leading to frequent urination, lower abdominal bloating, back pain, and other symptoms.
2、 Surgical treatment of uterine fibroids
For uterine fibroids, there are significant individual differences in whether to undergo surgical treatment, which need to be determined based on the patient's clinical manifestations, age, fertility, endocrine status, etc. For patients who meet the surgical criteria, the main clinical surgical options are as follows:
1. Transvaginal myomectomy
Transvaginal myomectomy is a commonly used clinical procedure, with the main advantages of: (1) no obvious scars on the abdomen, minimal interference to the abdominal cavity, mild postoperative pain, and faster recovery; (2) Surgery is particularly suitable for patients with uterine prolapse and vaginal wall protrusion. However, there are limitations in the operating space of transvaginal myomectomy, and the more accepted indications are: (1) no more than 2 (preferably single) anterior and posterior uterine fibroids with a diameter of less than 7cm near the lower segment of the uterus or intramural uterine fibroids; (2) Cervical fibroids, with a loose vagina and good uterine mobility, without pelvic adhesions; (3) Subserosal fibroids.
2. Hysteroscopic removal surgery
Currently, hysteroscopic removal surgery is the preferred surgical option for clinical treatment of uterine fibroids. The accepted indications are: uterine size within 6 weeks of pregnancy, tumor diameter within 3cm, and fibroids mainly protruding into the uterine cavity. For hysteroscopic surgery, the main determining factor is the depth of the muscle layer where the fibroid is located. For patients with a diameter exceeding 3cm and fibroids located in less than 50% of the muscle layer, it is difficult to perform hysteroscopic surgical resection. To avoid uterine perforation, surgery usually needs to be performed under laparoscopic supervision. Hysteroscopy surgery is a minimally invasive treatment method that has the characteristics of preserving endometrium, uterus, and fertility.
3. Laparoscopic myomectomy
Compared to traditional surgery, laparoscopic surgery causes less trauma and can remove lesions faster and more accurately, significantly reducing surgical risks. The surgery can be performed with minimal pain throughout the entire process, effectively reducing patient pain. The main advantages of laparoscopic hysterectomy are: (1) smaller abdominal wounds, less interference with the intestines, less postoperative wound pain, significantly reduced hospitalization time, and ideal recovery. (2) The surgical field of view is clearer, with a magnifying effect, allowing for a comprehensive observation of pelvic lesions. (3) It can safely separate pelvic adhesions and also treat ovarian and fallopian tube lesions simultaneously.
Uterine fibroids pose a significant threat to women's physical and mental health. Once diagnosed with the disease, female friends should seek active treatment at regular hospitals and choose the correct treatment plan after evaluation by doctors to improve their quality of life.