Magnetic Resonance-Guided Focused Ultrasound Surgery

This article describes the established thermoablative therapies in the treatment of uterine fibroids, emphasizing their role in the genesis of MRgFUS.  Treatment specifications are highlighted, and an overview of the procdure is given.  Data from both clinical trials and commercial treatments are detailed for multiple efficacy outcomes, including symptom improvement, leiomyoma shrinkage, and use of alternative treatments.  The concept of nonperfused volume as a surrogate marker for treatment success is discussed.  Importantly, favorable pregnancy outcomes following MRgFUS have been reported.  Applications of MRgFUS have recently expanded into the realm of adenomyosis treatment.  MRgFUS has been deemed a safe and effective method of fibroid treatment and offers the advantages of no incisions or blood loss, speedy recovery, and a cost-effective means of treatment.