ABSTRACT

MATERIALS-METHODS:

Microwaves (2.45 GHz) were introduced through coaxial cables to 2 types of microwave applicators: 1) a curved (diameter: 4 mm) for endometrial ablation, and 2) a needle-type (diameter: 1.6 mm) for myolysis. Once microwave endometrial ablation was completed, the needle-type applicator was placed in the myoma by transcervically introducing into the uterine cavity and puncturing using a puncture adaptor attached to a transvaginal ultrasonic probe. Microwaves were irradiated at 17 W for 10 min. Five patients on a waiting list for microwave endometrial ablation of organic menorrhagia caused by myomas or adenomyosis entered the study after complete informed consent was obtained. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of our Hospital.

CONCLUSIONS:

Transcervical microwave myolysis is feasible, and can quickly treat myomas or adenomyosis.

RESULTS:

In 4 patients with myomas, the major part consisting of a submucous or an intramural node of 6 to 7 cm in size was irradiated by microwaves, and was necrotized. The myoma nodes shrank by 17 to 53% in the following 3 months. The patient with adenomyosis showing a uterus greater than a newborn’s head in size, became amenorrheic, and the uterus size decreased by 31% 3 months after the operation. No remarkable complications were encountered.