Current status of high-intensity focused ultrasound for the management of uterine adenomyosis

Abstract

While high-intensity focused ultrasound has been used for some time in the management of uterine fibroids, its effectiveness and safety in managing adenomyosis is less well established. A literature review was performed of all eligible reports using this modality as a treatment for adenomyosis. Relevant publications were obtained from the PubMed electronic database from inception through March 2016. Eleven articles, including information from 1,150 treatments and follow-up data from 990 patients, were reviewed. High-intensity focused ultrasound appears to be effective and safe in the management of symptomatic adenomyosis, and can be considered as an alternative uterine-sparing option for women with this condition.

Combination therapeutic effects of high intensity focused ultrasound and Metformin for the treatment of adenomyosis

“…Clinical effects of HIFU for dysmenorrhea in patients with adenomyosis have been investigated and HIFU appears to be effective and safe in the management of symptomatic adenomyosis, which can be considered as an alternative uterine-sparing option for women with this disease (13,14). In addition, Metformin is beneficial for the treatment of adenomyosis (10).…”

Evaluation and Management of Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

“…23 In nonrandomized studies, uterine artery embolization (UAE) and MRI-guided focused ultrasound (MgFUS) seem to be promising treatments for adenomyosis, although they were approved by the Food and Drug Administration primarily for leiomyoma therapy. 24,25 Taran et al 24 reported improved symptoms in 50% to 90% of women in several small studies undergoing UAE followed for 1 or more years. Use of MgFUS resulted in a 25% to 66% reduction in bleeding over 12 months in women with adenomyosis.…”

“…Use of MgFUS resulted in a 25% to 66% reduction in bleeding over 12 months in women with adenomyosis. 25 Hysterectomy remains definitive therapy for women failing medical treatments.…”

Ultrasound-Mediated Diagnosis and Therapy based on Ultrasound Contrast Agents

“…To date, this HIFU ablation technique has been adopted to treat diverse tumors such as pancreas, brain, prostate, bone, liver, breast, kidney, and uterine tumors. [88][89][90][91][92][93] Among them, pancreatic cancer has been considered an inoperable and unresectable disease at the time of diagnosis. [94] Since the therapy may induce damage of nerve fibers stimulating it, some studies suggest that HIFU can play an important role for treating it without any significant negative effects.…”