MR guided Focused Ultrasound
with ExAblate 2000
What is MR guided Focused Ultrasound Surgery?
MR guided Focused Ultrasound Surgery is a non-invasive,
outpatient procedure which uses high doses of focused ultrasound waves
(HIFU) to destroy uterine fibroids, without
affecting any of the other tissues around the fibroid. The procedure
is conducted in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner which helps
the physician "see" inside the body to pinpoint, guide, and
continuously monitor the treatment.
Imagine using a magnifying glass to focus the sun's energy
on a single point to create a flame to burn a leaf. The focused ultrasound
energy is directed at a small volume of the fibroid, raising its temperature
high enough to cause thermal ablation (killing of the cells) without
impacting other tissues. Pulses of energy are repeated until the entire
volume is treated.
What does the MR guidance provide?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is advanced diagnostic
technology which provides 3D imaging of internal organs without radiation.
The MR guided FUS treatment uses the MR images to identify where the
fibroid is and what portion has been treated, without the need for any
incisions. It also provides real time feedback about temperature changes
of the treated fibroid to make sure that the fibrotic tissue has been
ablated (destroyed).
What happens during the procedure?
During the procedure you lie on your stomach on a patient
table that fits into a standard MRI scanner.
First, the doctor identifies the fibroid(s) on MR images
taken of your pelvic region. Then, after detailed planning, high energy
focused ultrasound waves heat a small spot in the uterine fibroid to
a temperature of up to 85oC. During the pulse or sonication,
which lasts about 15 seconds, the doctor monitors the progress and reviews
temperature-sensitive images. Since each sonication treats a very small
volume, this process will be repeated until the required volume is treated,
typically about 50 times. The procedure lasts about 3 hours depending
upon the size and number of fibroids treated.
Following the treatment the body gradually removes the
treated tissue over a period of months, providing symptom relief.
What should I experience during the treatment?
Before treatment you are given a sedative and pain medication
to help you relax. You lie on a patient table and are made comfortable
before starting treatment. The treatment takes place with you lying
on the patient table inside the MR scanner. Your clinical team will
be in the next room with two-way communication using a microphone and
a speaker. The doctor will inform you when images are being acquired
(scanning) and when the system is sonicating (treatment).
During treatment, it is normal to feel a warming sensation
in the pelvic region. You will be given a safety stop button that allows
you to immediately stop the sonication if the treatment becomes painful.
You are conscious the entire time and provide feedback
during the procedure to the physician. Afterwards you'll be asked to
rest for a few hours in the clinic, while the mild sedation wears off.
Then you'll be able to go home and resume normal activity.
How do I know if I'm a candidate for MR guided
FUS?
If you require treatment for your fibroid related symptoms,
but want to avoid surgery and preserve your uterus, consult your doctor,
who will ask you questions about your fibroid symptoms, general health
and medical history. You will also have routine blood work, an internal
gynecological examination and MR imaging of your fibroids. Based on
this information your doctor will decide if you are a candidate for
MR guided FUS.
How do I find out more about the procedure?
Contact the clinical coordinator at one of the sites under
treatement locations. The clinical coordinator will step you through
the screening procedure and help you determine if ExAblate is the right
choice for you. The following procedure usually takes place once you
call the clinical coordinator:
- Initial telephone conversation: to provide more details
on what the procedure entails and answer any questions you may have
on the procedure. Information about insurance coverage and/or clinical
trials may also be discussed. The clinical coordinator can send you
a patient guide and additional information about the procedure.
- Preliminary screening: if ExAblate is an option you
wish to consider, the clinical coordinator will set up a preliminary
screening for you to determine if you are a potential candidate for
ExAblate.
- MRI screening: once you have been determined a potential
candidate, you will be invited for an MRI exam. This is called the
"Screening Exam" to determine if your fibroids are amenable
for treatment. If your fibroids are treatable by ExAblate ( meaning
that they are reachable by the system), these MR images will also
aid your physician in preparing a treatment plan for your fibroids.
- Scheduling treatment: If you are eligible for the treatment,
your clinical coordinator will then arrange a time and date for you
to be treated, as well as provide you with instructions on how to
prepare for the procedure. The clinical coordinator will also discuss
with you post-procedure follow-up and expectations.
Learn about other available uterine fibroid treatment options.
Find an MR guided Focused Ultrasound Surgery treatment center near you.
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