By Sola Ogundipe
The Fibroid Care Centre (FCC) at Nordica, has performed its 1,000th successful High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound, HIFU, treatment for fibroids and adenomyosis, reaching the milestone five years after the centre began offering the procedure, marking a significant development in the use of focused ultrasound technology for fibroid care in Nigeria.
The 1,000th milestone was attained against the backdrop of the burden of uterine fibroids among Nigerian women and interest among patients in treatment options that may avoid or reduce the need for invasive surgery where medically appropriate.
In a statement, the FCC, which is West Africa’s first specialist centre for the non-invasive and minimally invasive treatment of uterine fibroids and adenomyosis, described fibroids as common non-cancerous growths in or around the uterus that can cause heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure and abdominal enlargement.
“For women with symptomatic fibroids, surgery remains an established treatment option, but some patients seek alternatives that do not involve a surgical incision.;That search for alternatives is reflected in the experiences of some women treated at the centre,” the Centre noted.
One patient who pleaded anonymity, said her recovery had brought noticeable changes to her menstrual cycle, with her bleeding reducing to five days and the blood clots and discomfort she previously experienced disappearing.
“My healing process has been good, noticeable changes in my body and monthly cycle. My bleeding has reduced drastically to five days, no discomfort or blood clotting, swelling has reduced. I can sleep on my tummy now. I feel good now,” she said, noting that she plans to undergo a follow-up scan to assess the status of her fibroids.
Another woman referred to the centre from Equatorial Guinea was also reported to have experienced relief after treatment. Her referee said the patient had initially needed reassurance about the treatment but later reported being regularly pain-free.
“I’m reaching out to thank you and your team for the excellent care provided to the patient and friend in Equatorial Guinea that I recommended your practice to, and for meeting with her to allay her fears and concerns. The last I heard from her, she mentioned that post-surgery, she has been regularly pain free. She sends her sincere thanks to you.”
According to the Centre, the 1,000-treatment milestone reflects its investment in HIFU technology and the development of local expertise even as the patient experiences highlight the expanding range of approaches available to women living with fibroids.
“HIFU uses focused ultrasound energy to target and destroy fibroid tissue without a surgical incision. It is not suitable for every patient, with eligibility depending on factors including the size, number, location and accessibility of the fibroids, as well as the patient’s overall health and treatment goals.
“For appropriately selected patients, HIFU can provide a non-incisional treatment option. However, outcomes vary, symptoms can persist or recur, and some patients may require additional treatment or follow-up.
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in or around the uterus and can cause heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure and abdominal enlargement. Treatment options vary according to the characteristics of the fibroids and the individual patient’s circumstances.
The 1,000-treatment milestone is being marked at a forum where medical professionals and former patients are expected to discuss HIFU and its place among the treatment options available for women with fibroids and adenomyosis.
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