Uterine fibroids are a common condition causing discomfort and impacting daily life for many women. These non-cancerous growths lead to various symptoms that prompt treatment. The Acessa procedure is a minimally invasive option that addresses fibroid symptoms while preserving the uterus, offering an alternative to more traditional surgeries.
Understanding Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are abnormal growths that develop in or on the uterus. Composed of muscle and connective tissue, they vary in size but are almost always benign. The exact cause remains unknown, but research suggests a strong link to hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone. These hormones stimulate fibroid growth, and fibroids often shrink after menopause when hormone levels decline.
Fibroids can develop in different uterine locations: within the muscular wall (intramural), on the outer surface (subserosal), or beneath the inner lining (submucosal). Symptoms depend on their number, size, and location. Common symptoms include heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, increased urinary frequency, and back pain. Some women also experience pain during sexual intercourse or a feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen.
The Acessa Procedure Explained
The Acessa procedure, also known as laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation (Lap-RFA), is a minimally invasive, outpatient treatment. It uses targeted heat energy to destroy fibroid tissue while leaving surrounding healthy uterine tissue intact. The process involves three small abdominal incisions, typically one at the belly button and others near the bikini line. Through these, a camera and an ultrasound probe are inserted to precisely locate and map the fibroids.
After identification, a specialized handpiece with needle-like electrodes is inserted directly into the fibroid tissue under continuous ultrasound guidance. Radiofrequency energy is delivered through these electrodes, generating heat that causes coagulative necrosis, destroying the fibroid cells. This controlled heating denatures proteins within the fibroid, changing its consistency from a firm mass to a softer, marshmallow-like texture. The treated tissue then gradually shrinks and is absorbed by the body.
The procedure is repeated for each targeted fibroid. Real-time laparoscopic and ultrasound imaging allows the physician to visualize and treat fibroids in various locations, including within the uterine walls and on the outer surface. The Acessa procedure typically lasts 90 to 120 minutes, depending on the number, size, and location of fibroids treated.
Who Qualifies for Acessa
The Acessa procedure is generally suitable for pre-menopausal women with symptomatic uterine fibroids who wish to retain their uterus. This often includes women younger than 55 seeking a less invasive alternative to hysterectomy or myomectomy. Candidacy depends on factors like the fibroids’ size, number, and location.
Acessa can address most types of symptomatic fibroids. While studied for fibroids up to 10 cm, a healthcare provider will conduct an MRI or ultrasound to determine if Acessa is appropriate for an individual’s specific fibroid characteristics. It is an option for women who prefer to avoid major uterine surgery and desire a quicker recovery period.
The Acessa Patient Journey
The Acessa patient journey begins with pre-operative consultations, where a healthcare provider assesses fibroids and overall health to confirm suitability. On the procedure day, patients receive general anesthesia for comfort. The outpatient procedure allows most patients to return home the same day after recovering from anesthesia.
Following the procedure, patients may experience mild abdominal pain or cramping, manageable with prescribed medication. Downtime is relatively short, with many women ready to return to work and daily activities within 4 to 5 days. Treated fibroids do not disappear immediately but gradually shrink as the body absorbs the destroyed tissue.
Symptom improvement, including reduced heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure, is generally observed within three months, with continued improvement over the first year. Clinical studies show an average fibroid shrinkage of about 45% post-procedure, leading to significant reduction in menstrual blood loss for many women. This gradual reduction in fibroid volume and tissue softening provides relief from symptoms.