NICE, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence of the NHS in the UK, announced new favorable guidelines for the treatment of uterine fibroids using MR guided Focused Ultrasound.
The new guidelines state that the current evidence on the efficacy of magnetic resonance image (MRI)-guided transcutaneous focused ultrasound treatment for uterine fibroids and evidence on safety are adequate to support the use of this procedure under normal arrangements.
As part of the interventional procedures evaluation process the committee reviewed dozens of peer reviewed papers describing over one thousand patients treated with ExAblate system.
The Specialist Advisers listed key efficacy outcomes as quality of life, symptom improvement, avoidance of further surgery, and subsequent fertility. NICE made a point of stating that the Committee was informed that many women wish to avoid more invasive interventions for symptomatic fibroids, even if this choice carries an increased chance of requiring further treatments. Some women choose this procedure because they wish to preserve their fertility.
“We are delighted with this news which recognizes the importance of MR guided focused ultrasound as a non-invasive uterine-sparing treatment option for women.” stated Dr. Kobi Vortman, President and CEO of InSightec Ltd. “NICE is world renowned and these new guidelines should help build awareness of this breakthrough, non-invasive outpatient technology to women and their physicians around the world.”
The new guidelines (IPG413) replace previous guidelines (IPG231) issued in 2007.
For more information about treating uterine fibroids with MRgFUS, click here.
