Uterine fibroids are common, non-cancerous growths that develop in or on the wall of the uterus. Also known as leiomyomas, these growths vary significantly in size, from as small as a pea to larger than a grapefruit. A 10 cm fibroid is considered large and can significantly impact a person’s health. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) serves as a diagnostic tool, providing detailed information for understanding these growths and guiding treatment decisions.
Understanding 10 cm Fibroids
A 10 cm fibroid is substantial, often compared to the size of a mango or grapefruit. Fibroids of this size are more likely to cause noticeable and sometimes severe symptoms. Common symptoms include heavy menstrual bleeding, which can lead to anemia and fatigue. Many individuals also experience pelvic pain or pressure, which can range from a dull ache to sharp discomfort.
Large fibroids can exert pressure on nearby organs, leading to various issues. For instance, pressure on the bladder can cause frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder completely. If the fibroid presses on the bowel, it can result in constipation or rectal discomfort. An enlarged uterus due to a 10 cm fibroid can also cause abdominal distension, making a person appear pregnant.
Why MRI for Fibroids
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a preferred imaging method for uterine fibroids, especially larger ones like a 10 cm fibroid, offering superior soft tissue contrast compared to other techniques such as ultrasound or CT scans. This enhanced detail allows medical professionals to differentiate fibroids from other pelvic masses, such as adenomyosis or more rarely, sarcomas. The non-invasive nature of MRI is another benefit, as it does not use ionizing radiation. MRI also provides precise mapping of the fibroids, including their exact location and their blood supply, known as vascularity.
What an MRI Reveals
An MRI precisely identifies the fibroid’s location within or on the uterus. Fibroids can be subserosal, growing on the outer surface of the uterus; intramural, located within the muscular wall; or submucosal, protruding into the uterine cavity. Knowing the exact location helps determine the most suitable treatment approach. The MRI also reveals the number of fibroids present, as individuals often have multiple growths.
It assesses the fibroid’s vascularity, or blood supply, which is important for treatment options like Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE). Additionally, MRI can detect signs of degeneration within the fibroid, such as hyaline, cystic, or red degeneration, which occur when the fibroid outgrows its blood supply.
Navigating Treatment Options
Treatment decisions for a 10 cm fibroid are highly individualized, considering MRI findings, the severity of symptoms, the person’s age, and desires for future fertility. Non-surgical options are available, such as Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE). During UFE, tiny particles are injected into the arteries supplying the fibroid, blocking its blood flow and causing it to shrink. Research indicates UFE can be a safe and effective option even for large fibroids, leading to significant symptom relief.
Medications can also manage symptoms like heavy bleeding, though they typically do not eliminate the fibroid itself. For instance, hormonal therapies can help control bleeding and pain. Some non-surgical approaches, like Magnetic Resonance-guided Focused Ultrasound (MRgFUS), use focused ultrasound waves guided by MRI to heat and destroy fibroid tissue, offering a non-invasive alternative.
Surgical approaches include myomectomy, which removes only the fibroids while preserving the uterus. This option is often chosen by those who wish to maintain their fertility. Myomectomy can be performed through open surgery or minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopy, depending on the fibroid’s size and location. Hysterectomy, the surgical removal of the entire uterus, is another option, often considered when other treatments are not suitable or symptoms are severe, and future pregnancy is not desired.