Laparoscopic myomectomy is another alternative to hysterectomy. Repeated puncturing effectively destroys the fibroids. We've tried using monopolar electrodes, but consider bipolar current safer. Unipolar energy may increase the size of the holes, but it doesn't increase the efficiency of the energy delivered to the fibroids. Future research may show that this technique may be used in women who want to maintain fertility, but current experience is based only on women who have completed their families.
Anecdotal evidence suggests that myometrial necrosis is counterproductive to childbearing.
In the hundreds of procedures I've performed, and in those performed in Europe, there have been no side effects. Compared with hysterectomy, which requires 5 to 6 weeks recovery, patients are discharged the same day and can return to work within 4 or 5 days. Because the uterus is left intact, hormonal and sexual function is preserved. After following these patients for up to 8 years, we have seen no regrowth of fibroid tumors. This treatment is successful for both serosal and subserosal fibroids and is recommended for women who have symptomatic fibroids that measure 10 cm or less.