Fibromas are benign tumours that can develop in various organs, commonly affecting the uterus, skin, or mouth. While most of these growths are harmless, they can cause discomfort or symptoms once they reach a certain size or location. Fibromas can remain asymptomatic for extended periods, often going unnoticed until complications arise. Understanding fibroma treatment options is crucial for appropriate intervention and treatment.
What are the treatments of fibromas?
Fibromas are tumours that can develop in any area of the body. Depending on the type of fibroma, several treatment options are possible. These comprise basic observation of the fibroma and different operations.
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Watchful waiting
In cases where a fibroma is small and unlikely to cause any discomfort, the doctor may advise the patient to leave it alone. Regular check-ups will help monitor the size of the fibroma and prevent it from growing or causing issues.
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Medications
In some cases, medications can be given to manage symptomatic fibromas or shrink them. Contraceptives or gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues can also help reduce bleeding or decrease the size of uterine fibromas. However, none of these treatments is a definitive fibroma cure. They aim to enhance the lifestyle of the person affected by fibromas.
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Myomectomy
Among the surgical interventions for uterine fibroids, a myomectomy is frequently touted as the best procedure for helping women retain their fertility. It removes the fibroma while minimising potential damage to the uterus. Types include:
- Traditional surgery: A process that requires an incision in the stomach, suitable for large fibromas.
- Laparoscopic surgery: In this procedure, fine incisions are made using small surgical instruments. Laparoscopic surgery is intended for small fibromas and has a short recovery period.
- Robotic surgery: This operation is similar to laparoscopy, but the doctor utilises robotic arms to provide better precision. A robotic surgery also takes a shorter time to heal.
- Hysteroscopic surgery: This surgery is incision-less and involves inserting a laparoscope into the cervix to observe and operate upon uterine fibromas.
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Other surgical options
If fibromas cause severe symptoms or if a myomectomy isn’t suitable, other surgical treatments may be considered. These include:
- Hysterectomy: A hysterectomy is performed when fibromas are extremely tender, and other techniques cannot be used. It removes the uterus and, thereby, any possibility of pregnancy.
- Uterine artery embolisation (UAE): This process reduces blood flow to the fibroma and, as a result, causes it to degenerate. This is least intrusive to the woman’s body but is not recommended for women who desire future fertility.
- MRI-guided focused ultrasound: This involves using sound waves to remove the fibroma tissue without necessarily removing the tissues through surgery.
Conclusion
Treating fibromas depends on factors such as symptoms, size, location, and future plans. Having a clear understanding of available treatment options aids in selecting the most suitable approach. Verifying health insurance coverage is crucial to dealing with the associated costs for these treatments. Seeking guidance from a healthcare provider ensures personalised care for managing fibromas effectively.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.