Hysteroscopic Myomectomy

What is a hysteroscopic myomectomy?

Uterine fibroids — noncancerous tumors that grow on the wall of the uterus — are fairly common among women. You may have uterine fibroids and not even know it, or you may have uterine fibroids that cause multiple symptoms.

Traditionally, hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) has been used to treat severe uterine fibroids that must be surgically removed. However, having a hysterectomy means you may not be able to have children. If you haven’t already reached menopause, having a hysterectomy may cause early menopause.

Main Line Health offers hysteroscopic myomectomy as an alternative to hysterectomy for the surgical treatment of uterine fibroids.

Symptom relief for the most severe fibroids

The most common symptoms of uterine fibroids include:

• Constipation
• Frequent urination
• Heavy or irregular vaginal bleeding
• Pain in the back or legs
• Pelvic pain and pressure

Smaller fibroids may not cause any symptoms, or may be treated through a non-invasive procedure such as hysteroscopy. However, if your fibroids are severe, hysteroscopic myomectomy is often suggested. Your fibroids are considered severe if you have multiple fibroids and/or they are large.

What to expect from a hysteroscopic myomectomy

During hysteroscopic myomectomy, a thin, lighted tube is inserted into your vagina and through the opening of your cervix. This gives your doctor a clear view of the inside of your uterus. Next, your doctor uses surgical instruments to remove the fibroids. The benefit of hysteroscopic myomectomy over hysterectomy is that your uterus remains in place, giving you the chance to become pregnant in the future.

If your fibroids are causing symptoms that interfere with your daily living, talk to your doctor about possible treatments, including hysteroscopic myomectomy.