The latest treatment option for uterine fibroids

A uterine fibroid is a common type of benign (non-cancerous) tumor that develops within the uterine wall. One in five women in the United States has a uterine fibroid. While not all women with fibroids experience symptoms, fibroids may cause excessive menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain and infertility. Of the estimated 600,000 hysterectomies performed in the U.S. each year, at least a third are for fibroids.

A common alternative to a hysterectomy is a myomectomy - the surgical removal of uterine fibroids. This procedure preserves the uterus and may be recommended for women who could become pregnant. After removing the fibroids, the surgeon carefully repairs the uterus. This is critical to reduce the risk of uterine rupture during pregnancy.

Myomectomy is usually performed through a large open incision. But at University Physicians Hospital the procedure can be performed through four tiny incisions using the da Vinci surgical system®. This advanced minimally invasive method not only reduces scarring, but it also allows the surgeon the control to remove fibroids and preserve the uterus with more precision than has ever been possible.

Many insurance companies now cover this procedure. Regardless of your plan's current contract status with University Physicians Hospital, please call (520) 694-7670 to learn about your individual plan options.

To schedule a consultation or for more information on the da Vinci surgical system call (520) 694-7670.