Uterine fibroids are a common health issue among women, causing symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and difficulty getting pregnant. Traditionally, fibroids were treated through surgical procedures such as myomectomy or hysterectomy. However, a hospital in the UAE, Al Qassimi Women’s and Children’s Hospital in Sharjah, is now offering a new technique called Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) to treat uterine fibroids without the need for surgery. RFA is a minimally invasive procedure that gradually shrinks the fibroid, leading to fewer complications and shorter recovery times.
The hospital, a part of the Emirates Health Services (EHS), has successfully treated eight patients with uterine fibroids using the RFA technique. Dr. Muna Khalfan Sabt, head of the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department at the hospital, stated that the procedure has shown high efficacy and safety in treating women with fibroids without the need for surgical removal. Patients undergoing RFA can leave the hospital on the same day and resume normal activities within approximately five days. Dr. Shalini Malhotra, a consultant obstetrician & robotic gynaecologist surgeon at the hospital, explained that radiofrequency energy is used to reduce the size of the fibroids and alleviate symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain.
A real-life success story shared by Dr. Malhotra involves a 30-year-old patient who was experiencing heavy prolonged periods due to a fibroid, resulting in severe anaemia. Due to the patient’s high risk factors, including heart disease and a history of thrombo-embolism, traditional surgical options were not suitable. The patient underwent the RFA procedure, which successfully treated the fibroid causing the bleeding. The mild side effects of RFA, such as cramping and vaginal discharge, are temporary and easily managed with pain medications.
Dr. Malhotra emphasized that in young women with fibroids who may require future treatment due to the risk of recurrence, non-surgical techniques like RFA should be considered before opting for surgery as a last resort. The choice of treatment for fibroids depends on factors such as the size and number of fibroids, symptoms, fertility considerations, and patient preferences. RFA offers a safe and effective alternative to traditional surgical methods for treating uterine fibroids, providing women with a less invasive option that minimizes complications and recovery times. Stay informed about the latest medical advancements and treatment options for uterine fibroids by following reliable sources like the Al Qassimi Women’s and Children’s Hospital in Sharjah, UAE.
