Latest Groundbreaking Medical Procedure For Women With Fibroids
UM Laurel Medical Center Performs First Laparoscopic Surgery Using Ultrasound-Guided Radiofrequency Technology
Across America, there are all types of harrowing stories about women who have suffered from fibroids and the burden and pain it brings along. How the non-cancerous tumors grow in and on the uterus causing infertility issues and emotional distress. And the heartbreaking stories of the after-effects of what removing the fibroids can do. For some, it has left them unable to have children.
On March 9, two patients entered the UM Capital Region Health Medical Group at Laurel for a scheduled procedure known as Laparoscopic Fibroid Ablation (aka Acessa) and on this day, Dr. Lawrence Stitt performed the first Acessa procedure in Prince George’s County. Known as the newest procedure using the latest technology to treat fibroids. UM Laurel Medical Center is moving forward to provide this procedure in the county to all women.
Laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation of fibroids (known as Acessa) is a procedure that uses heat to destroy fibroid tissue. The surgeon places a camera through two small surgical cuts: one in the belly button and one in the skin over the lower abdomen (belly). It has entered the medical field as groundbreaking because it will allow hospitals the opportunity to experience cutting-edge technologies to treat an age-old diagnosis.
“This procedure is important for county residents because demographically, the fibroid burden that women in Prince George's County [carry] is significant. Based on the population of women in the area and the fact that 7-8/10 women will have fibroids by the age of 50 suggests that there is a significant opportunity to provide more access to treatment for women.” Stitt said.
Based on 2020 Census data there are approximately 382 thousand black and white women in Prince George's County and of those women 75% or 286 thousand will have fibroids and approximately 100 thousand or 35% will have symptoms that significantly affect their quality of life. Acessa will replace hysterectomy for some patients which historically has been known as their mother’s hysterectomy.
“What makes this procedure groundbreaking is that it offers the ability to treat fibroids using a unique minimally invasive approach. Laparoscopic Fibroid Ablation offers patients minimal recovery time which equates to a prompt return to family and work. It offers decreased blood loss which almost eliminates the need for blood transfusions after surgery. The faster healing time and decreased pain results in an overall better feeling afterwards, more energy, and return to a normal quality of life,” Dr. Stitt said.
Dr. Stitt, who received his medical degree from Meharry Medical College, is aware of the impact this type of surgery has on the county, “I am ecstatic! Adding this procedure to the treatment options for women increases our ability to treat women with uterine fibroids. Also, it allows women to keep their uterus instead of having it removed and possibly having to deal with short and long-term complications of having a hysterectomy,” he said.
The future for the University of Maryland Capital Region Health Group is promising. This summer, the system will open its first Fibroid Center of Excellence for the women of Prince George's County. The center will focus specifically on women who suffer from uterine fibroids and offer women various treatment options for the management of symptoms associated with uterine fibroids.
“If women have been diagnosed with fibroids, they should contact our office to discuss the numerous options available for the treatment and management of uterine fibroids and the symptoms they cause.” Recommends Stitt.
