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Large Fibroid Removal

Fibroids are non-cancerous tumors that occur in the connective tissue, though they often are found in the uterus. Although most fibroids are asymptomatic and require no treatment, if they get too large in size they can cause pain and may need to be removed.

  1. Myomectomy

    • A myomectomy is a surgical procedure that aims to remove fibroids yet leave the uterus intact. The most intensive type of this procedure is called an abdominal myomectomy where an incision is made across the abdomen so the surgeon can reach into the body cavity. While there are other, less invasive types of myomectomy, this type is used for women with many fibroids, ones that are deep or very large fibroids.

    Myolysis

    • Myolysis is a procedure where the surgeon enters the body laparoscopically, or a small cut in the abdomen. Using a laser or current of electricity, the surgeon will destroy the fibroid and also shrink down any blood vessels that had been feeding it. According to the Mayo Clinic, this type of therapy is still being researched for safety, efficacy and rate of fibroid recurrence. In a similar type of procedure, liquid nitrogen is also to freeze and shrink fibroids.

    Uterine Artery Embolization

    • With this procedure the doctor will inject particles into the arteries that feed the fibroids with the aim to cut off the blood supply. Without an active blood supply, the fibroid will then theoretically shrink. According to the Mayo Clinic, this new technique is effective and safe. It is also preferable over surgery since there is no incision, making recovery time a lot quicker. One known complication, however, is it may affect blood supply to the ovaries, uterus and other organs.

    Non-Uterine Fibroids

    • Another fairly common type of fibroid is a plantar fibroma that occurs on the bottom of foot. Like uterine fibroids, plantar fibromas are only surgically removed if they cause severe pain. For large fibroids that occur near other organs or in the nasal cavity such as angiofibromas, your surgeon will evaluate the risks of removal before recommending surgery. If the fibroid is in an inoperable location, myolysis and embolization may be the best course of action. If the fibroid grows on the surface of the skin, your doctor may recommend leaving it alone as surgery could leave a large scar.

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