Uterine Sparing Laparoscopic Ablation of Uterine Fibroids: A Survey of Patient's Satisfaction and Treatment Outcomes

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

11-1-2021

Publication Title

J Minim Invasive Gynecol

Abstract

Study Objective: The primary purpose of this study was to assess the patient's satisfaction with laparoscopic radiofrequency fibroid ablation (Lap-RFA) for the treatment of symptomatic uterine fibroids. We inquired about their quality of life, health state, and overall treatment effects.

Design: Survey study.

Setting: Community-based tertiary care medical center. Patients or Participants: All patients who underwent a Lap-RFA by a single surgeon between the years of 2012 and 2020.

Interventions: laparoscopic radiofrequency fibroid ablation (Lap-RFA).

Measurements and Main Results: 48 patients underwent Lap-RFA procedure by the same provider and were mailed surveys for postoperative evaluation. Twenty patients responded, yeilding a 42% response rate. The mean age of the patients was 46 (34-60) years. The average time interval from surgery to survey response was 23 months (1-50). The Uterine fibroid Symptom and Health-Related Quality of Life (UFS-QOL) and the Health State Questionnaire scores are inversely related to outcomes. The UFS-QOL score can range from 37 to 185 with 37 being the optimal outcome. The average UFS-QOL score was found to be 72 (range 37-146). In addition, the Health state questionnaire can range from 5 to 15, and the average score was 6 (range 5-9). On a scale of 1 to 10, 10 representing optimal outcome, the average health rating was 8 (range 5-10). Using the Menorrhagia Impact Questionnaire, seven patients reported improved menses, ten had no change in symptoms, one had worsening symptoms, and two were postmenopausal. Sixteen patients reported some degree of satisfaction with the procedure, while three were dissatisfied with their overall treatment outcomes. Ninety percent of patients would recommend Lap-RFA to a friend.

Conclusion: Lap-RFA procedure is an effective uterine-sparing treatment for symptomatic fibroids with good patient satisfaction. The Lap-RFA procedure should be considered when counseling patients about fibroid management options.

Volume

28

Issue

11

First Page

S157

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