Comparison between radiofrequency ablation combined with mifepristone and radiofrequency ablation for large uterine fibroids

• Main Authors: Ning Hai, Qingxiang Hou, Xiangping Dong, Ruijun Guo
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Taylor & Francis Group 2021-01-01
• Series: International Journal of Hyperthermia
• Subjects: ultrasound-guided; rfa; uterine fibroids; mifepristone; mid-term effect
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/02656736.2021.1922763
• ISSN: 0265-6736; 1464-5157

Objective To evaluate the clinical outcomes of transvaginal ultrasound-guided (US-guided) radiofrequency ablation (RFA) combined with mifepristone for the treatment of large uterine fibroids. Methods Between June 2016 and December 2018, a total of 30 patients with symptomatic uterine fibroids (≥5cm) who underwent transvaginal US-guided RFA combined with mifepristone were included in this retrospective study. A matching cohort of 30 patients underwent transvaginal US-guided RFA without mifepristone as controls. The technical efficacy, complications and mid-term treatment effectiveness were assessed and compared with the controls. Results The mean volume of uterine fibroid was 168.3 ± 40.1 cm3. The mean ablation time was 23.5 ± 11.3 min in the combined treatment group, which was demonstrably less than that of the RFA group, which was 45.7 ± 6.8 min. The mean number of punctures was 2.2 ± 0.6 in the combined treatment group, which was significantly less than that of the RFA group. No major complications occurred. The mean percentages of regression of fibroid at 3 and 12 months after the course of the combined treatment were 73.3% and 90.1%, respectively, which were significantly more than those of the RFA group. Quality of life and symptom scores improved in both groups but to a greater extent in the combined treatment group. Conclusions US-guided RFA combined with mifepristone might be a simple, safe and effective alternative for the treatment of large uterine fibroids.