Transcervical, intrauterine ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation of uterine fibroids with the VizAblate® System: three- and six-month endpoint results from the FAST-EU study

Radiofrequency ablation for the treatment of uterine fibroids: A systematic review and meta-analysis by the AAGL Practice Committee

OBJECTIVE

To systematically review clinical and patient-reported outcomes after radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for the treatment of uterine fibroids.

DATA SOURCES

We searched Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Registry of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) on September 8, 2023, and requested additional data from industry sources. We included published, peer-reviewed studies of patient-centered outcomes of RFA when used for symptomatic fibroids. Abstracts and potentially relevant full-text articles were screened and data were extracted regarding study characteristics, arms, outcomes, and results, together with risk of bias assessment.

METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION

We included 30 studies published in 49 articles (3 randomized controlled trials, 1 nonrandomized comparative study, and 26 single-group studies, as well as 4 publications from the TRUST Study) with variable risks of bias.

TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS

The study populations were demographically diverse and clinically heterogeneous. Across studies, RFA treatment was associated with fibroid volume reduction of 46.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] 52.1, 40.0; 11 studies) at 3 months and 65.4% (95% CI 74.7, 56.1; 10 studies) at 12 months. All studies reported a decrease in proportion of patients experiencing abnormal, heavy, or prolonged menstrual bleeding, with the most substantial improvement within the first 3 months. Meta-analyses of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) scores demonstrated significant improvements in scores from baseline for Uterine Fibroid Symptoms and Quality of Life [UFS-QOL] (53.4, 95% CI 48.2, 58.5; 19 studies), EuroQol 5 Dimension [EQ-5D] (71.6, 95% CI 65.0, 78.1; 4 studies), and Symptom Severity Score [SSS] (52.2, 95% CI 46.4, 58.1; 17 studies), with a peak at 6 months on the UFS-QOL scale (88.0, 95% CI 83.0, 92.9; 11 studies), a peak at 24 months on the EuroQol-5D scale (88.3, 95% CI 86.0, 90.6; 2 studies), and a trough at 12 months for SSS (12.8, 95% CI 7.0, 18.6; 11 studies). Studies mostly demonstrated return to work and normal activities within 2 weeks. Reported unplanned hospitalizations were infrequent, and durations of hospital stay were generally short. Post-procedure complications were inconsistently reported, but assessed overall to be infrequent. Long-term need for medical and surgical re-intervention varied. Post-RFA hysterectomy rates ranged from 2/205 (1.0%) to 15/62 (24.1%) with variable follow-up periods ranging from 45 days to 74 months. Most studies did not include patients who desired to maintain fertility; thus, reproductive data are insufficient for interpretation.

CONCLUSION

There is a paucity of comparative studies, and the small number of RCTs are limited by lack of blinding. Few studies had the long-term follow-up time required to draw definitive conclusions regarding the durability of symptom relief. However, despite these limitations, there is overall agreement on several important clinical measures following RFA, such as decreased fibroid volume, improved uterine bleeding and improved quality of life. Future high quality randomized controlled trials with standardized outcomes measures are required to better characterize the use of RFA among fibroid patients.

Outcomes of transvaginal radiofrequency ablation for symptomatic leiomyomas

OBJECTIVE

Describe the effect of transvaginal radiofrequency ablation for leiomyoma in symptomatic patients and post procedure follow-up.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A retrospective forward-looking observational study was performed including 63 patients who underwent transvaginal radiofrequency ablation between January 2016 and December 2022 at San Cecilio University Hospital in Granada, Spain. The variables registered were: age, parity, the clinical features that lead to the medical visit and pre-surgical treatment. Prior to the procedure, leiomyoma location and volume were determined by transvaginal ultrasound. Follow-ups were scheduled at 6 and 12 months to evaluate symptom improvement, adverse outcomes, leiomyoma volume and if any necessary post-surgical treatment was required.

RESULTS

Mean leiomyoma volume at baseline, 6 months and 12 months was 83.3 (24.9-130.7), 42.4 (4.7-89.0) and 19.2 (1.9-80.4) cm3, respectively (p < .001). Significant differences were found between the baseline and 12 month visits (p < .001). At the annual follow-up, the mean rate of volume reduction was 79.5 %, being higher in women who reported symptom improvement compared to those who reported no change in symptom intensity from baseline (84.6% vs. 30.8 %). Patients with a lower initial volume and age over 40 were more likely to have treatment efficacy. 8 pregnancies were registered post procedure.

CONCLUSION

Radiofrequency is well tolerated, allowing for same-day discharge, rapid recovery and a safe approach for women who want to preserve their reproductive potential. Initial volume and age over 40 appear to be factors that should be considered in patient selection. Further studies are needed to continue evaluating the outcomes and identifying predictive factors.

Hysteroscopic diode laser myolysis: from a case series to literature review of incisionless myolysis techniques for managing heavy menstrual bleeding in premenopausal women

PURPOSE

This case series examined the safety and effectiveness of hysteroscopic myolysis using laser-induced interstitial thermo-therapy (LITT) for treating heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) in premenopausal women with FIGO type 1 or 2 uterine fibroids, not planning for future fertility. Additionally, a comprehensive review of innovative, minimally invasive, incisionless myolysis techniques was conducted.

METHODS

Women with HMB, sonographically diagnosed with a single FIGO type 1 or 2 fibroid, underwent hysteroscopic myolysis using the Leonardo® diode laser. Effectiveness was assessed via transvaginal ultrasound measurement of myoma size, volume and vascularization pre and post-procedure. Moreover, we also evaluated any improvements in symptoms using the Pictorial Blood Loss Assessment Chart (PBAC score) scores.

RESULTS

The procedure resulted in significant HMB reductions and noticeable fibroid size, volume, and vascularization decrease in all three patients, with no reported complications. The literature review revealed both advantages and limitations of the minimally invasive, incisionless myolysis techniques.

CONCLUSIONS

Hysteroscopic laser myolysis is a safe and effective therapeutic intervention for patients experiencing HMB, diagnosed with FIGO type 1 or 2 fibroids, and not planning for future fertility. The procedure resulted in significant reductions in menstrual blood loss and fibroid size. Despite the promising results, it is essential to note the limitations of this report, including its case series design, a small number of patients, and a short follow-up period. Further research is necessary to confirm these results.

Delayed expulsion of a large fibroid after transcervical radiofrequency ablation: A case report

Fibroids are the most common type of benign uterine tumor, which occur up to 68.6% of women. Hypermenorrhea is the most common symptom with a general prevalence of 40%-54%, followed by dysmenorrhea and low abdominal pain. Transcervical fibroids ablation was developed as a minimally invasive, incisionless treatment of fibroids in a short time. This method is safe and effective with an excellent record of safety. We present the case of a 40-year-old woman, who attended in our fibroid excellence center. She reported severe hypermenorrhea and dysmenorrhea. Family planning was definitely completed. Using vaginal ultrasonography a FIGO 2-5 fibroid of 5 cm in diameter was detected. Different treatment options were discussed: medical treatment, laparoscopic fibroidectomy, hysterectomy, and transcervical radiofrequency ablation with Sonata System. Because of advantages of transcervical radiofrequency ablation (minimal invasive treatment without incision, effectivity of method, short surgical time) the patient decided on this method. Three months later, the patient came to the first follow up. She reported a significant improvement of hypermenorrhea. A vaginal ultrasonography was carried out. The fibroid changed its position from FIGO 2-5 to FIGO 2. The patient was very satisfied with the result. After 2 months, she attended in our department again because of severe clear vaginal discharge. She had no bleeding, no pain as well as no fever. We examined her immediately. A fibroid expulsion was detected. The fibroid was removed vaginally. There was no severe bleeding during the operation and the fibroid could be removed completely. The surgery time was 25 minutes.

A Systematic Review of Minimally Invasive Approaches to Uterine Fibroid Treatment for Improving Quality of Life and Fibroid-Associated Symptoms

Improvement in symptom severity and quality of life (QoL) are critical concerns for women with fibroids as they evaluate treatment options. This systematic review analyzed available evidence regarding minimally invasive approaches to fibroid treatment and compared validated QoL and fibroid-associated symptom scores before and after treatment. A comprehensive search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Scopus from January 1990 to July 2020. English-language publications were included if they evaluated associations between minimally invasive approaches to fibroid treatment and QoL or fibroid-associated symptoms, and they used validated questionnaires before and after treatment. QoL or fibroid-associated symptom scores were compared and summarized for each minimally invasive approach. Thirty-seven studies were ultimately included in this review: 26 evaluating individual approaches and 11 which were comparative studies of minimally invasive approaches and surgical interventions. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy (USGS) significantly improved overall QoL. Uterine artery embolization (UAE) and ultrasound-guided high-intensity frequency ultrasound (US-HIFU) improved overall QoL to a similar extent as surgical interventions. Twenty-eight studies assessed fibroid-associated symptoms with the Uterine Fibroid Symptoms Quality of Life Questionnaire (UFS-QoL). UAE, magnetic resonance imaging-guided high-intensity frequency ultrasound (MR-HIFU), US-HIFU, RFA, and percutaneous microwave ablation (PMWA) significantly decreased Symptom Severity Score by a range of 21 to 39 points (out of 100) at 6 months. Minimally invasive approaches to treat fibroids were effective alternatives to surgical interventions for improving quality of life, fibroid-associated symptoms, and pain. Outcomes among minimally invasive approaches were similar, presenting patients with numerous options for fibroid treatment.

Radiofrequency Ablation of Uterine Fibroids and Pregnancy Outcomes: An Updated Review of the Literature

OBJECTIVE

To provide a systematic review of pregnancy outcomes after radiofrequency ablation of uterine fibroids.

DATA SOURCES

A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, and EMBASE, from database inception until October 2021.

METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION

Two reviewers conducted independent literature searches. Studies that met criteria based on title and abstract underwent full text review. Publications were included if they reported pregnancies and obstetric outcomes after laparoscopic or transcervical radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of fibroids.

TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS

405 publications were initially identified and screened, 39 underwent full text review, and 10 publications were ultimately included. There were 50 pregnancies reported among 923 RFA patients: 40 pregnancies after 559 laparoscopic RFAs and 10 pregnancies after 364 transcervical RFAs. The number of patients from these studies actively trying to conceive after RFA is unknown. Among the RFA patients who conceived, the average age at ablation was 37 years old (range 27 to 46 years). The majority of patients had between 1 and 3 fibroids ablated, and fibroid size ranged from less than 2 centimeters to 12.5 centimeters. There were 6 spontaneous abortions (12%) and 44 full-term pregnancies (88%), of which 24 were vaginal deliveries and 20 were cesarean deliveries. There were only 2 complications among 44 deliveries: 1 placenta previa that underwent an uncomplicated cesarean delivery and 1 delayed postpartum hemorrhage with expulsion of a degenerated myoma, with no long-term sequelae. There were no cases of uterine rupture, uterine window, or invasive placentation, and no fetal complications. The spontaneous abortion rate was comparable to the general obstetric population.

CONCLUSION

Almost all pregnancies after radiofrequency ablation of fibroids were full-term deliveries with no maternal or neonatal complications. These findings add to the literature that radiofrequency fibroid ablation may offer a safe and effective alternative to existing treatments for women who desire future fertility.

Transcervical radiofrequency ablation of fibroids that are 5 cm or larger in women with abnormal uterine bleeding

INTRODUCTION

Fibroids are the most common benign uterine tumors. Transcervical radiofrequency ablation with the Sonata® System offers a minimally invasive, incisionfree, organ-preserving therapy, with intraoperative visualization of fibroids using intrauterine ultrasound guidance. To demonstrate the effectiveness of transcervical radiofrequency ablation of fibroids that are 5 cm or larger using the Sonata® System, this retrospective analysis was collected.

METHOD

151 patients have been treated with this method in our department up to the time of this analysis. Only patients with at least one fibroid of ≥5 cm and with bleeding symptoms, who were treated with the Sonata® System were included in this retrospective study. A total of 50 patients were included in the study and 57 fibroids were treated.

RESULTS

A total of 57 fibroids were detected and treated, however FIGO 1 and 2 fibroids (in total three fibroids were excluded). The smallest fibroid was 4 cm and the largest fibroid was 12 cm. A single ablation was performed in 18 cases, two ablation steps in 16 cases, three ablation steps in 13 cases, and more than three ablation steps in three cases. Depending on ablation steps, the shortest ablation time was 3 min 15 s and the longest ablation time was 25 min 6 s, with an average time of 9 min 12 s. 86% of patients reported an improvement of symptoms Conclusion: Thus, the Sonata® System is a simple, minimally invasive, rapid and successful method that shows significant improvement of symptoms even in large myomas from ≥5 cm.

Pregnancy Outcomes After Transcervical Radiofrequency Ablation of Uterine Fibroids with the Sonata System

Objective:

To describe pregnancy outcomes in women who conceived after undergoing transcervical fibroid ablation (TFA) as treatment for symptomatic uterine fibroids.

Materials and Methods:

TFA was used to treat symptomatic uterine fibroids with radiofrequency energy, both under clinical trial protocol and commercial usage in hospitals in Europe, the United Kingdom, Mexico, and the United States. All women who reported pregnancies to their physicians after undergoing TFA with the Sonata^® System and provided consent for use of their data were included.

Results:

There have been 36 pregnancies representing 20 deliveries among 28 women who were treated with TFA. Five women conceived more than once postablation, and four conceived as a result of assisted reproductive technology (ART). Outcomes include 8 vaginal deliveries, 12 Cesarean sections, 3 therapeutic abortions, and 8 first trimester spontaneous abortions (four occurring in a patient with a history of recurrent pregnancy loss and an immunologic disorder). Five women are currently pregnant, two of whom previously delivered after TFA. There were no 5-minute Apgar scores <7, and all neonates weighed >2500 g. All deliveries occurred at ≥37 weeks except for one delivery at 35 6/7 weeks. There were no uterine ruptures or abnormal placentation and no reports of postpartum hemorrhage or stillbirths. Ablated fibroids included transmural, submucous, and intramural myomata up to 7 cm in diameter.

Conclusions:

Normal pregnancy outcomes at term have occurred after TFA with the Sonata System, including in women with recurrent abortion and in those undergoing ART. There were no instances of low Apgar scores, low birthweight, stillbirth, postpartum hemorrhage, or uterine rupture (FAST-EU, NCT01226290; SONATA, NCT02228174; SAGE, NCT03 118037). (J GYNECOL SURG 38:207)

A feasibility analysis of the ArcBlate MR-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound system for the ablation of uterine fibroids

Purpose

Uterine fibroids are benign gynecologic tumors and commonly occur in women by the age of 50. Women with symptomatic uterine fibroids generally receive surgical intervention, while they do not favor the invasive therapies. To evaluate the feasibility and safety of a novel magnetic resonance-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound (MRgHIFU) modality, ArcBlate, in the treatment of uterine fibroids.

Methods

Nine patients with uterine fibroids and one patient with adenomyosis were treated with ArcBlate MRgHIFU. Tumor size and quality of life were evaluated postoperatively at 1 and 3 months by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and the 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36), respectively.

Results

All patients completed the ArcBlate MRgHIFU procedure and there were no treatment-related adverse effects either during the procedure or during the 3 months of follow-up. Despite limiting the ablation volume to under 50% of the treated fibroid volume as a safety precaution, tumor volumes were markedly reduced in four patients by 15.78–58.87% at 3-month post-treatment. Moreover, SF-36 scale scores had improved at 3 months from baseline by 2–8 points in six patients, indicating relief of symptoms and improved quality of life.

Conclusion

This study evidence demonstrates the safety and feasibility of ArcBlate MRgHIFU and suggests its potential for treating uterine fibroids.

A Systematic Review of Minimally Invasive Treatments for Uterine Fibroid-Related Bleeding

Newer minimally invasive techniques provide treatment options for symptomatic uterine fibroids while allowing uterus preservation. The objective of this review was to analyze the efficacy of uterine-preserving, minimally invasive treatment modalities in reducing fibroid-related bleeding. A comprehensive search was conducted of PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, ClinicalTrials.gov, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases from inception to July 2020. English-language publications that evaluated premenopausal women with fibroid-related bleeding symptoms before and after treatment were considered. Randomized controlled trials were assessed for bias with the established Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool 2.0 and observational studies were assessed for quality under the New Castle-Ottawa Scale guidelines. Eighty-four studies were included in the review, including 10 randomized controlled trials and 74 observational studies. Six studies on myomectomy demonstrated overall bleeding symptom improvement in up to 95.9% of patients, though there was no significant difference between mode of myomectomy. Forty-one studies on uterine artery embolization reported significant reduction of fibroid-related bleeding, with symptomatic improvement in 79 to 98.5% of patients. Three studies suggested that embolization may be superior to myomectomy in reducing fibroid-related bleeding. Six studies reported that laparoscopic uterine artery occlusion combined with myomectomy led to greater reduction of bleeding than myomectomy alone. Fifteen studies demonstrated significantly reduced bleeding severity after radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Additional research is needed to establish the superiority of these modalities over one another. Long-term evidence is limited in current literature for magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound surgery, cryomyolysis, microwave ablation, and laser ablation.

Transcervical fibroid ablation with the Sonata™ system for treatment of submucous and large uterine fibroids

Objective

To examine the role and benefits of transcervical fibroid ablation (TFA) in the treatment of submucous and large uterine fibroids.

Methods

A subgroup of patients with submucous or large fibroids were analyzed from two prospective clinical trials (FAST‐EU and SONATA) of sonography‐guided TFA with the Sonata^® system. Key outcomes were changes in menstrual blood loss, symptom severity and health‐related quality of life on the Uterine Fibroid Symptom and Quality‐of‐Life Questionnaire, health‐related quality of life on the EQ‐5D questionnaire, and surgical reinterventions for heavy menstrual bleeding.

Results

Among 197 women (534 treated fibroids), 86% of women with only submucous fibroids and 81% of women with large fibroids (>5 cm) experienced bleeding reduction within 3 months post‐ablation. Overall symptom severity and health‐related quality of life showed sustained, significant improvements over 12 months. Additional fibroid mapping of large fibroids with magnetic resonance imaging in the FAST‐EU trial showed an average volume reduction of 68%. Among women with only submucous fibroids, the rate of surgical reintervention through 1 year of follow up was 3.7% in FAST‐EU and 0.0% in SONATA.

Conclusion

With the Sonata system, TFA is an effective single‐stage treatment option for non‐pedunculated submucous myomata, and larger or deeper uterine fibroids (including fibroid clusters) for which hysteroscopic treatment is not suitable.

ClinicalTrials.gov: FAST‐EU, NCT01226290; SONATA, NCT02228174.

Transcervical fibroid ablation with the Sonata™ system is an effective single‐stage treatment option for non‐pedunculated submucous and large myomata.

Uterine Myomas: Extravascular Treatment

Uterine fibroids are common benign tumors that affect the female reproductive tract. They are responsible for considerable morbidity and deterioration of life quality. The main advantages offered by mini invasive techniques are low grade of invasiveness and short times of hospitalization. The most diffuse technique is uterine artery embolization (UAE). Common concerns with UAE include postprocedural pain, postembolization syndrome, and risk of infection. Image-guided thermal ablation techniques like radiofrequency ablation, percutaneous microwave ablation, and imaging-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound were introduced to overcome the side effects related to UAE and surgery. The aim of this review is to briefly analyze the ablative procedures and their role in the management of symptomatic fibroids, and to describe the safety profile and outcomes of these modalities.

Non-extirpative Treatments for Uterine Myomas: Measuring Success

OBJECTIVE

To analyze outcomes of nonextirpative treatments for uterine myomas compared with myomectomy.

DATA SOURCES

A systematic search of the following databases from inception to January 2020 was performed: Ovid Medline, Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials.

METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION

Two authors reviewed titles and abstracts for relevance, and full articles were obtained and evaluated for inclusion. Studies were included if they compared nonextirpative interventions for uterine myomas to myomectomy and reported at least one outcome of interest.

TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS

Of the 2010 articles identified and reviewed, 125 full text articles were reviewed, and 22 were ultimately included in the analysis. Nonextirpative treatments reviewed included uterine artery embolization (UAE; 16 studies, n = 9555 subjects), focused ultrasound (FUS; 4 studies, n = 1516), laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation (RFA; 3 studies, n = 49). UAE, FUS, and laparoscopic RFA groups were compared with patients undergoing myomectomy (n = 34 872, n = 20 677, n = 47 respectively). In comparison with myomectomy, UAE had similar quality of life scores, symptom severity scores, sexual function scores, ovarian function, and miscarriage rates following intervention. There was lower likelihood of conceiving after UAE and a higher rate of reintervention after UAE compared with myomectomy. FUS had similar postprocedure sexual function scores and reintervention rates compared with myomectomy. Laparoscopic RFA had similar quality of life scores, symptom severity scores, sexual function scores, reintervention rates, and pregnancy rates after the procedure compared with myomectomy.

CONCLUSION

Nonextirpative treatments for uterine myomas have similar outcomes to myomectomy in multiple domains, with most available evidence comparing UAE with myomectomy.

The CHOICES Study: Facility Level Comparative Cost, Resource Utilization, and Outcomes Analysis of Myomectomy Compared to Transcervical Fibroid Ablation

Purpose

The CHOICES study compared short-term resource utilization, facility costs, and perioperative patient outcomes between transcervical fibroid ablation (TFA) with the Sonata® system and myomectomy through a case-matched comparative trial design. This is the first facility-level comparative study conducted for TFA.

Patients and Methods

The study enrolled 88 patients from 4 centers equally divided among the two cohorts. The TFA arm consisted of 44 women who had enrolled in the SONATA Pivotal IDE trial, whereas the myomectomy arm included 44 patients who were identified through retrospective case-matching to the enrolled SONATA patients at the same 4 centers.

Results

TFA had a significantly lower mean operating room duration (90 minutes) and length of stay (5.2 hours) than myomectomy (143 minutes and 45.8 hours, respectively). The average total mean facility costs for TFA procedure ($7,563) were significantly lower than those associated with myomectomy ($11,425; p=0.002). TFA mean facility costs were also compared with other stratifications of myomectomy (inpatient or outpatient and surgical route). TFA facility costs were significantly lower than that associated with inpatient, abdominal, or laparoscopic myomectomy (all p<0.001).

Conclusion

TFA using the Sonata system has a significantly shorter operating room time and length of stay than myomectomy for the treatment of symptomatic uterine fibroids. All procedure, anesthesia, laboratory, pathology, and pharmacy costs were significantly higher for myomectomy as compared to TFA. TFA was also associated with significantly lower facility procedure-related costs compared to myomectomy, including inpatient, abdominal, or laparoscopic myomectomy.

Pictorial methods to assess heavy menstrual bleeding in research and clinical practice: a systematic literature review

Background

Pictorial blood loss assessment charts (PBACs) represent the most widely used method to assess menstrual blood loss (MBL) in clinical trials. The aims of this review were to: (1) determine the diagnostic accuracy of PBACs that have been validated against the reference alkaline hematin technique; (2) categorize the pitfalls of using obsolete and nonvalidated charts; (3) provide guidelines for development of a new PBAC or use of an existing chart to measure MBL in clinical trials; and (4) consider the feasibility of using pictorial charts in primary care.

Methods

A literature review was conducted using Embase and MEDLINE databases. The review identified reports of women with self-perceived or actual heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB), bleeding disorders, abnormal uterine bleeding, leiomyomata (uterine fibroids) or endometriosis, and women undergoing treatment for HMB, as well as those with normal menstrual periods. Data were reviewed from studies that focused on the development and validation of PBACs and from those that used derivative noncertified charts to assess HMB.

Results

Nine studies reported validation of PBAC scoring systems against the alkaline hematin technique. Across these studies, the sensitivity was 58–97%, the specificity was 7.5–95.5%, the positive and negative likelihood ratios were 1.1–13.8 and 0.14–0.56, respectively, and the diagnostic odds ratio was 2.6–52.4. The cut-off score above which the diagnosis of HMB was made ranged from 50 to 185. Several modifications of these PBACs were used in other studies; however, objective confirmation of their validity was not reported. Overall, there was widespread inconsistency of chart design, scoring systems, diagnostic cut-off limits and post-treatment outcome measures.

Conclusions

PBACs are best suited to the controlled and specific environment of clinical studies, where clinical outcome parameters are defined. The current lack of standardization precludes widespread use of the PBAC in primary care.

Review registration number

PROSPERO international prospective register of systematic reviews: CRD42016030083.

Transcervical Radiofrequency Ablation of Symptomatic Uterine Fibroids: 2-Year Results of the SONATA Pivotal Trial

Objective: To report 2-year results of sonography-guided transcervical fibroid ablation (TFA) using the Sonata^® system in women with symptomatic uterine fibroids. Design: This is a prospective multicenter single-arm interventional trial. Methods: Premenopausal women with up to 10 clinically relevant uterine fibroids, each ranging from 1 to 5 cm in diameter, were treated with sonography-guided TFA on an outpatient basis and returned for regular follow-up visits for 2 years. Assessed outcomes included changes in symptom severity, heath-related quality of life, general health status, work and activity limitations, treatment satisfaction, adverse events, surgical reintervention, and occurrence of pregnancy and associated outcomes. Results: Among 147 enrolled women, 125 (85%) returned for follow-up at 2 years. Compared with baseline, symptom severity decreased from 55 ± 19 to 24 ± 18 (p < 0.001), health-related quality of life increased from 40 ± 21 to 83 ± 19 (p < 0.001), and EuroQol 5-Dimension scores increased from 0.72 ± 0.21 to 0.89 ± 0.14 (p < 0.001). Overall treatment satisfaction at 2 years was 94%. The mean percentage of missed work time, overall work impairment, and activity impairment significantly decreased at follow-up. Through 2 years, surgical reintervention for heavy menstrual bleeding was performed in 5.5% of patients. One singleton pregnancy occurred with a normal peripartum outcome. Conclusions: TFA treatment with the Sonata system provides significant clinical improvement through 2 years postablation, with a low incidence of surgical reintervention. Other favorable outcomes included a rapid return to work and substantial improvements in quality of life, symptom severity, work productivity, and activity levels.

Clinical Performance of Radiofrequency Ablation for Treatment of Uterine Fibroids: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Prospective Studies

Background: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has emerged as a safe and effective treatment option for women with symptomatic uterine fibroids and can be delivered by laparoscopic, transvaginal, or transcervical approaches. The evidence regarding typical patient outcomes with RFA has not previously been examined in a comprehensive fashion. Materials and Methods: We performed a systematic review of prospective studies for treatment of uterine fibroids with RFA. Main outcomes were procedure time, patient recovery metrics, change in fibroid volume, symptom severity score (SSS), health-related quality of life (HRQL), and reinterventions. Data were analyzed with random effects meta-analysis and metaregression. Results: We identified 32 articles of 1283 unique patients (median age: 42 years) treated with laparoscopic RFA (19 articles), transvaginal RFA (8 articles), or transcervical fibroid ablation (5 articles). Mean procedure time was 49 minutes, time to discharge was 8.2 hours, time to normal activities was 5.2 days, and time to return to work was 5.1 days. At 12 months follow-up, fibroid volume decreased by 66%, HRQL increased by 39 points, and SSS decreased by 42 points (all P < .001 versus baseline). The annual cumulative rate of reinterventions due to fibroid-related symptoms was 4.2%, 8.2%, and 11.5% through 3 years. Conclusions: RFA of uterine fibroids significantly reduces fibroid volume, provides significant durable improvements in fibroid-related quality of life, and is associated with favorable reintervention rates.

The INTEGRITY Trial: Preservation of Uterine-Wall Integrity 12 Months After Transcervical Fibroid Ablation with the Sonata System

Objective: The aim of this research was to evaluate uterine-wall integrity 12 months after transcervical fibroid ablation (TFA) of uterine fibroids with the Sonata^® system (Gynesonics Inc., Redwood City, CA).

Materials and Methods: INTEGRITY is a secondary analysis of the FAST-EU clinical trial, a prospective, longitudinal, multicenter single-armed trial involving women with heavy menstrual bleeding secondary to fibroids who were treated at 7 academic and community hospitals in the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Mexico with transcervical, intrauterine, ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation (the Sonata system). TFA was performed on up to 5 fibroids per subject ranging from 1–5 cm in diameter as determined by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). All measurements and comparisons, including uterine-wall thicknesses were derived from baseline and 12-month MRI scans by an independent core MRI center. Scans were analyzed to assess preservation of uterine-wall integrity and reviewed for uterine-wall anomalies after TFA with the Sonata system.

Results: Twenty-nine patients had baseline and 12-month MRI with contrast enhancement. Minimum uterine-wall thicknesses in all visible slices were >2.5 mm in diameter. No areas on MRI indicated any loss of uterine-wall integrity, compared with baseline imaging; comparison of baseline and postablation uterine-wall thicknesses revealed no significant changes.

Conclusion: Transcervical fibroid ablation with the Sonata system was associated with preservation of uterine-wall integrity in this patient cohort.

Term Delivery in an Infertile Patient after Transcervical Radiofrequency Fibroid Ablation and Assisted Reproductive Technology

Background: Transcervical radiofrequency (RF) ablation of uterine fibroids is an incisionless procedure to treat nonpedunculated uterine fibroids, including those that are not amenable to operative hysteroscopy. However, its safety and effectiveness regarding fertility and fecundity have not been established, including among women with infertility. Case: A 38-year-old nullipara with infertility since 2008 and a recent complaint of refractory dysmenorrhea in association with a uterine fibroid underwent transcervical RF ablation with the Sonata^® System (Gynesonics, Redwood City, CA) to treat the symptomatic myoma. Unsuccessful assisted reproduction (intracytoplasmic sperm injection/embryo transfer) as confirmed by negative pregnancy testing had been attempted 1 month preablation, and a second embryo transfer after thawing the previously cryopreserved pronuclei was performed 7 months postablation. Results: RF ablation with the Sonata System resulted in a 68% reduction in fibroid volume noted on sonography 2 months post-treatment along with resolution of the patient's dysmenorrhea. No residual fibroid was noted on sonography 7 months postablation. A second attempt at assisted reproduction produced an uncomplicated pregnancy that resulted in vacuum-assisted vaginal delivery of a liveborn infant at term weighing 3670 g with Apgar scores of 9¹/10⁵/10¹⁰. Pelvic sonography 4 months postpartum an unremarkable uterus, again, with no evidence of a fibroid remnant. Conclusions: This is the first report of a pregnancy and delivery in an infertile couple who underwent transcervical RF ablation of a uterine fibroid followed by assisted reproduction.

12-month outcomes of the US patient cohort in the SONATA pivotal IDE trial of transcervical ablation of uterine fibroids

Objective

The prospective SONATA pivotal Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) trial was performed in the United States (US) and Mexico to examine the safety and effectiveness of transcervical fibroid ablation (TFA) in the treatment of symptomatic uterine fibroids. This is an analysis of 12-month clinical outcomes in the US cohort.

Methods

TFA with the Sonata^® System was performed on women with symptomatic uterine fibroids. The 12-month co-primary endpoints were reduction in menstrual blood loss and freedom from surgical reintervention. Symptom severity, quality of life, patient satisfaction, safety, and reductions in uterine and fibroid volumes were also evaluated.

Results

One hundred twenty-five patients were enrolled and treated in the US. Both co-primary endpoints were achieved in this US-based cohort, as 65.3% of patients reported ≥50% reduction in menstrual bleeding and 99.2% of patients were free from surgical reintervention. Symptom improvement was noted by 97.4% of patients and 98.3% were satisfied. Ninety-five percent of patients reported reduced menstrual bleeding at 12 months, and 86.8% noted >20% reduction. Significant mean improvements at 12 months were realized in both symptom severity and health-related quality of life (33.8 points and 45.8 points, respectively; all P<0.0001). Mean maximal fibroid volume reduction per patient was 63.8%. There was a 0% incidence of device related adverse events. Mean length of stay was 2.5 hrs and 50% of patients returned to normal activity within 1 day.

Conclusion

This analysis of US patients in the SONATA pivotal IDE trial demonstrates results consistent with those in the full cohort. TFA with Sonata significantly reduced fibroid symptoms with a low surgical reintervention rate through 12 months. These results support the efficacy and safety of the Sonata system as a first-line treatment for women affected by symptomatic uterine fibroids.

Long-Term Clinical Outcomes of Transcervical Radiofrequency Ablation of Uterine Fibroids: The VITALITY Study

Objective: The aim of this research was to learn the long-term (> 5 years) clinical outcomes of transcervical radiofrequency ablation of uterine fibroids.

Materials and Methods: For this retrospective, single-arm, long-term data-collection study, 23 women with heavy menstrual bleeding secondary to fibroids were treated with transcervical radiofrequency ablation guided by integrated intrauterine sonography (using the Sonata^® System, Gynesonics, Redwood City, CA). This study was within the 12-month Fibroid Ablation Study-EU clinical trial in Mexico. Symptoms were assessed using the Uterine Fibroid Symptom and Quality-of-Life's Symptom Severity Score (SSS) and Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) subscales. Patients were queried regarding pregnancy and surgical reinterventions.

Results: Seventeen women (73.9%) provided long-term follow-up information, with a mean of 64.4 months ±4.5 months (range: 57–73 months). From baseline, mean SSS decreased significantly from 64.9 ± 16.9 to 27.6 ± 36.1, and mean HRQoL improved significantly from 27.2 ± 22.4 to 76.0 ± 32.6 (p = 0.002, and p = 0.0001, respectively). There were no surgical reinterventions through the first 3.5 years post-treatment. There was an 11.8% incidence of surgical reinterventions over 5.4 years of average follow-up, with 2 hysterectomies occurring after 3.5 and 4 years postablation, respectively (event rate: 2.2% per year; 95% confidence interval; 0.3%, 7.9%). Freedom from surgical reintervention at 1, 2, and 3 years was 100%, and, at 4 and 5 years, was 88.2% ± 7.8%. There was a single pregnancy occurring within the first year of treatment leading to a normal-term delivery by elective repeat cesarean section.

Conclusions: Transcervical radiofrequency ablation with the Sonata System produced substantial durable clinical benefits beyond 5 years with a low reintervention rate.

Alternatives to hysterectomy: The burden of fibroids and the quality of life

Uterine fibroids are the most common benign tumor in reproductive-aged women. While the majority of women are asymptomatic, those with symptoms may suffer from abnormal uterine bleeding, infertility, pelvic pain or pressure, and urinary dysfunction. Fibroids represent a significant healthcare burden for women and society as a whole. Women with fibroids have compromised overall quality of life and impairment in many specific domains including work productivity, sexuality, self-image, relationships, and social emotional and physical well-being. Many women are reluctant to ask for help and delay seeking treatment. To date, myomectomy remains the gold standard for treating fibroid-related symptoms in reproductive-aged women. However, many less invasive uterine preserving approaches have been developed. Quality of life is improved in many women following treatment for fibroids. This article aims to provide an overview of the substantial impact of fibroids on health-related quality of life.

A New Paradigm for Uterine Fibroid Treatment: Transcervical, Intrauterine Sonography-Guided Radiofrequency Ablation of Uterine Fibroids with the Sonata System

Purpose of Review

This article provides the current evidence related to transcervical radiofrequency ablation of uterine fibroids under integrated intrauterine sonography guidance (the Sonata System).

Recent Findings

Published data on the treatment of fibroids with the Sonata System has demonstrated significant median reductions in total (73.3%) and perfused (73.3%) uterine fibroid volume, menstrual bleeding (72.3%), symptom severity (62.5%), and improvements in health-related quality of life (127%) at 12 months post-ablation. A clinical trial under an FDA Investigational Device Exemption is in progress.

Summary

The Sonata System is a promising treatment modality for uterine fibroids. As an incisionless, minimally invasive treatment that does not require general anesthesia or hospitalization, it has the potential for redefining the current paradigm for management of symptomatic fibroids.

Ultrasound-guided transcervical radiofrequency ablation for symptomatic uterine adenomyosis

OBJECTIVE

To retrospectively evaluate the midterm outcomes of transvaginal ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for the treatment of symptomatic uterine adenomyosis.

METHODS

87 patients with symptomatic uterine adenomyosis, who met the inclusion criteria, were enrolled in our study from January 2013 to October 2015. All of the patients underwent transvaginal ultrasound-guided RFA and were followed up for 12 months. Assessment end points included uterus volume reduction rate, lesion regression rate, dysmenorrhoeal score, symptom severity score (SSS) and adverse events.

RESULTS

In all 87 patients, 81 patients fulfilled the follow-up evaluations post-ablation. The mean uterine volume reduction rate was 35.8% at 1 month, 40.8% at 6 months and 41.2% at 12 months post-ablation. Dysmenorrhoea and SSS statistically significantly declined. Reintervention rate was 18.5%. Two patients developed intrauterine adhesion after ablation. No serious complications including penetration or burn injuries of the nearby organs were observed.

CONCLUSION

Ultrasound-guided RFA might be a safe and effective minimally invasive alternative in the treatment of symptomatic adenomyosis. Advances in knowledge: This is the first study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided RFA for the treatment of adenomyosis to our knowledge. This is also the first study to provide various changes of intrauterine cavity after this treatment.

Potential role of TRAns Cervical Endosonography (TRACE) in brachytherapy of cervical cancer: proof of concept

PURPOSE

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the gold standard for image guided adaptive brachytherapy (BT) of cervical cancer. Ultrasound is an attractive alternative with reasonable costs and high soft tissue depiction quality. This technical note aims to demonstrate the proof of principle for use of TRAns Cervical Endosonography with rotating transducer in the context of brachytherapy (TRACE BT).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

TRACE BT presentation is based on a single stage IIB cervical cancer patient. Prior to second BT implant, rotating US transducer (6.9 mm diameter) was inserted in cervical canal and axial images obtained at 10 MHz, focal range of 30 mm, and axial resolution of 0.4 mm. Size and topography of hypo-echoic areas were assessed and optimal positions of interstitial needles were determined. Finally, intracavitary applicator was placed and needles inserted through vaginal ring-template according to TRACE pre-plan. MRI-based high risk clinical target volume (CTVHR) dimensions were compared with hypoechoic areas on TRACE. Topography of parametrial needles on post-insertion MRI was compared with TRACE pre-plan.

RESULTS

Insertion of rotating mechanism into cervico-uterine cavity was safe, feasible and fast. The 360° imaging in axial plane enabled real-time assessment of cervix, uterus, and adjacent parametria. Qualitative comparison of TRACE with post-insertion MRI revealed favorable agreement of findings. In-plane size of CTVHR on MRI was comparable to hypoechoic areas on TRACE. Needle positions on post-insertion MRI corresponded to TRACE-based pre-plan. Main limitation of TRACE was gradual deterioration of image quality due to coupling gel removal.

CONCLUSIONS

Present proof of concept demonstrates potential role of TRACE-BT for cervical cancer as an attractive high-tech approach with reasonable costs. Prior to investigation of its clinical role, further development of TRACE methodology is needed. This includes reliable transducer-tissue coupling, applicator reconstruction, imaging range, limitations in extensive tumors, US-based contouring concepts, registration with other imaging methods, organ dose-assessment, real-time dosimetry, etc.

The FAST-EU trial: 12-month clinical outcomes of women after intrauterine sonography-guided transcervical radiofrequency ablation of uterine fibroids

The FAST-EU Trial was designed to establish the effectiveness and confirm the safety of transcervical intrauterine sonography-guided radiofrequency ablation with the VizAblate™ System in the treatment of symptomatic uterine fibroids. This was a multicenter, prospective, single-arm trial involving academic and community hospitals in the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Mexico. Women with qualifying uterine fibroids and heavy menstrual bleeding underwent intrauterine sonography-guided transcervical radiofrequency ablation (RFA) with the VizAblate System; anesthesia was individualized. Patients were required to have up to five fibroids from 1 to 5 cm in diameter. The primary trial endpoint was the percentage change in perfused fibroid volume, as assessed by contrast-enhanced MRI at 3 months by an independent core laboratory. Secondary endpoints, evaluated at 6 and 12 months, included safety, percentage reductions in the Menstrual Pictogram (MP) score, and the Symptom Severity Score (SSS) subscale of the Uterine Fibroid Symptom-Quality of Life (UFS-QOL) questionnaire, along with the rate of surgical reintervention for abnormal uterine bleeding and the mean number of days to return to normal activity. Additional assessments included the Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) subscale of the UFS-QOL, nonsurgical reintervention for abnormal uterine bleeding, anesthesia regimen, patient satisfaction, and pain during the recovery period. An additional MRI study was performed at 12 months on a subgroup of patients. Fifty patients (89 fibroids) underwent transcervical radiofrequency ablation with the VizAblate System. At 3 and 12 months, perfused fibroid volumes were reduced from baseline by an average of 68.1 ± 28.6 and 67.4 ± 31.9 %, respectively, while total fibroid volumes were reduced from baseline by an average of 54.7 ± 37.4 and 66.6 ± 32.1 %, respectively (all P < .001 compared with baseline; Wilcoxon signed-rank test). At 12 months, mean MP score and SSS decreased by 53.8 ± 50.5 and 55.1 ± 41.0 %, respectively; the mean HRQOL score increased by 277 ± 483 %. There were four surgical reinterventions (8 %) within 12 months. This is the first report of the 12-month follow-up for patients in the FAST-EU Trial. In concert with previously reported 3- and 6-month endpoint data, the 12-month results of the FAST-EU Trial suggest that in addition to substantially reducing the perfused and total volume of targeted uterine fibroids, the VizAblate System is safe and effective through 12 months in providing relief of abnormal uterine bleeding associated with submucous, intramural, and transmural fibroids.

Radiofrequency ablation for treatment of symptomatic uterine fibroids

The use of thermal energy-based systems to treat uterine fibroids has resulted in a plethora of devices that are less invasive and potentially as effective in reducing symptoms as traditional options such as myomectomy. Most thermal ablation devices involve hyperthermia (heating of tissue), which entails the conversion of an external electromagnetic or ultrasound waves into intracellular mechanical energy, generating heat. What has emerged from two decades of peer-reviewed research is the concept that hyperthermic fibroid ablation, regardless of the thermal energy source, can create large areas of necrosis within fibroids resulting in reductions in fibroid volume, associated symptoms and the need for reintervention. When a greater percentage of a fibroid's volume is ablated, symptomatic relief is more pronounced, quality of life increases, and it is more likely that such improvements will be durable. We review radiofrequency ablation (RFA), one modality of hyperthermic fibroid ablation.