MANAGEMENT OF UTERINE FIBROIDS

WITHOUT SURGERY

FRANCIS L. HUTCHINS, JR, MD, FACOG

The 20^th century can aptly be called the century of surgery.  It was during this time that anesthesia, blood banking, and antibiotics were introduced.  As a consequence, elective surgery and, what have called unnecessary, surgery became commonplace. 

As the 21^st century approached, multiple techniques and therapies began to evolve.

Examples include:

·         Uterine Artery Occlusion (Uterine Artery Embolization, etc.)

·         Hysteroscopy for resection of submucous fibroids

·         Endometrial Ablation

·         Hormone therapies such as high dose progesterone and GnRH analogues, e.g., Lupron, etc.

·         Hormone receptor modulators and antagonists (RU 486, Asoprisnil)

·         Focused ultrasound

There is also substantial research ongoing which promises to produce additional treatments in the near future.  As a consequence of these evolving treatments and the fact that most fibroids do not require any treatment , the need to perform major surgery such as hysterectomy and myomectomy is rapidly become unnecessary.   Thus, most women with fibroids can expect to avoid hysterectomy and myomectomy increasingly in the 21^st century.

Dr. Hutchins practice is located in suburban Philadelphia.  In addition to general gynecology, the practice specializes in the management of uterine fibroids and other non-cancerous gynecologic disorders without using major surgery.

Bibliography  | Dr. Hutchins Background
Curriculum Vitae | Fibroid Book | Cases: #1 | #3
Dr. Hutchins - Fibroid Discussion Forum
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