Adenomyosis - is a medical condition that affects the uterus, specifically the endometrium (the lining of the uterus). In adenomyosis, the tissue that normally lines the uterus (endometrium) begins to grow into the muscular walls of the uterus (myometrium). This can lead to an enlarged and bulky uterus.
Adenomyosis symptoms
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding: This is one of the most common symptoms. Women with adenomyosis often experience heavy menstrual bleeding and severe menstrual cramps.
- Pelvic pain and pressure: Some women with adenomyosis may experience chronic pelvic pain, which can be dull, aching, or sharp. This pain is typically worse during menstruation.
- Enlarged uterus: The uterus may feel larger than normal during a pelvic exam.
- Backache or leg pains: adenomyosis may cause radiating pain in the lower back or down the legs.
- Painful intercourse: Some women my experience painful intercourse.
Treatment options for adenomyosis
- Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may help manage pain and discomfort.
- Hormonal therapy: Birth control pills, hormonal IUDs, or other hormonal treatments can help regulate menstrual bleeding and reduce pain.
- Uterine artery embolization (UAE): This is a minimally invasive procedure where the blood supply to the uterus is blocked to reduce the symptoms of adenomyosis.
- Hysterectomy: In severe cases or for women who have completed their families, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be recommended.
Microwave Ablation:
Microwave ablation involves inserting a thin probe into the adenomyosis through a small pinhole under ultrasound guidance. The probe emits microwave energy, which heats and destroys the tissue and shrinks the adenoma. Microwave ablation in adenomyosis is a new and promising treatment option which is without any big cut on body. Microwave ablation is a non-surgical treatment for adenomas which is promising as the uterus is saved and patient can have normal pregnancy and it also have no influence on ovary function.
Secondly, Microwave ablation is done under conscious sedation (patient is awake during the treatment), it’s a day care procedure which means patient is discharged on the same day or within 24 hours in insurance cases.
Advantages:
- Preservation of Uterus: This procedure is uterus-sparing, meaning it does not involve removing the uterus. It is an option for women who wish to retain their fertility.
- Fast Recovery Time: Recovery time is typically shorter compared to traditional surgery.
- Pinhole Non-Surgical treatment: The incisions made for the procedure are usually very small, resulting in minimal scarring. No huge blood loss.
