Uterine Fibroids: Laser Treatment Options

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Laser Treatment for Fibroids
There are many treatment options available for uterine fibroids and new approaches are under evaluation. Innovations in medical technology have enabled the availability of less invasive treatment alternatives. Among these options is laser treatment for uterine fibroids.

Interstitial Laser Photocoagulation (ILP) Treatment for Uterine Fibroids
Interstitial Laser Photocoagulation (ILP) is a technique which uses a low powered laser to destroy tumor tissue. This technique employs (Nd-YAG), a 1064nm wave-length laser that allows for relatively deep tissue penetration.

Often gynecologists will treat small uterine fibroids using laparoscopic techniques. ILP laser treatment for uterine fibroids is commonly implemented using 1 of 2 different approaches:
1. Laparoscopic myolisis
2. MRI guided percutaneous laser ablation.

Laparoscopic Myolisis for Fibroids
For this procedure, a fiber-optic laser, or an electrical tool equipped with a laser, is placed into the fibroid through the laparoscope. This may require a small incision in the abdomen, or in some cases the procedure can be done through hysteroscopy.

The goal of this procedure is to cut off the blood supply to the uterine fibroid or artery feeding the uterine fibroid. The dead tissue is then gradually replaced with scar tissue. This form of laser therapy may lead to some complications such as obscured visibility due to smoke. A possible side effect of this procedure is adhesions. This is when organs such as intestines stick to the uterus and it could lead to future problems.

MRI Guided Percutaneous Laser Ablation of Uterine Fibroids
Under MR guidance needles are inserted into the center of the targeted uterine fibroid through an area of skin that has been anaesthetized. Bare laser fibers are inserted down the center of each of the needles into the targeted fibroid. Laser energy is then used to destroy the fibroid. The use of the lasers percutaneously under MR guidance enables the doctor to accurately target the fibroids before applying the thermal energy. MR imaging allows thermal recording of the fibroid in real time throughout the treatment using the heat sensitivity of the MR signal, minimizing damage to the surrounding area.