Ultrasound is a versatile tool with many applications in the field of gynecology. Notably, it is especially useful along the continuum of care for patients with uterine fibroids. This condition can negatively impact quality of life through symptoms such as pain, abnormal bleeding and even infertility.
An ultrasound can help to rule out other conditions, pinpoint where the fibroids are located and allow the physician and patient to map out the best approach to treatment. Here are three of the most frequently asked questions about the utility of ultrasound in caring for patients with uterine fibroids.
- How can uterine fibroid ultrasound images improve care throughout the treatment process? Ultrasound is especially useful for diagnosing the cause of an enlarged or bulky uterus, but the diagnosis is only the beginning of care. If fibroids are found, they need to be classified, measured and likely treated. Although many clinicians tend to think about the utility of ultrasound in diagnosing medical conditions, it is a procedural tool, as well. 3D ultrasound is used to visualize the uterus during procedures such as sonohysterography and hysteroscopic myomectomy. Utilizing ultrasound in each step of this process allows the physician to understand the nuance of each patient's case and provide better, more individualized care.
- How does FIGO for fibroid classification help in fertility planning? Patients in their childbearing years who have uterine fibroids are likely concerned about finding treatment options that preserve their fertility. The FIGO (Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics) classification system classifies fibroids as one of eight types according to their location. Because only certain types of fibroids are related to infertility, knowing which type is present will guide a patient's monitoring and treatment.
- Can ultrasound help to make fibroid ablation procedures safer? As one of very few options for preserving the uterus while eliminating uterine fibroids, radiofrequency ablation is an important treatment choice for people who may wish to become pregnant. Ultrasound not only locates the fibroids, but importantly, also rules out contraindications and guides placement for the ablation procedure itself. Ultrasound plays a considerable role after the procedure as well, helping clinicians monitor for rare but serious complications. Patients may prefer ablation over other treatments such as uterine artery embolization or hysterectomy given that it is minimally invasive and offers a quick recovery time.
Unfortunately, there is not a one-size-fits-all option for treating uterine fibroids. The current template of best practices is built around good imaging. Any treatment for fibroids should be planned with the desired outcome in mind. For some patients, that will be a complete elimination of symptoms, but for others, it will be a compromise of a reduction in pain and the ability to become pregnant. High-quality imaging can help with each step along the way to achieving the outcome you and your patient have in mind.
