Hysterectomy vs. ExAblate

There are a number of treatment options for uterine fibroids. The most common treatment is hysterectomy. ExAblate is a medical device that lets your doctor be able to see inside your body, locate your symptomatic fibroids and precisely treat them, all without surgery. 

Hysterectomy Facts 

Hysterectomy is the second most frequent major surgical procedure among reproductive-aged women. Approximately 600,000 hysterectomies are performed each year in the United States. Uterine Fibroids are the leading cause for hysterectomies.

ExAblate Treatment Facts 

ExAblate is commercially approved for treating Uterine Fibroids. More than 6500 women have already undergone this non-invasive procedure.

How long does it take to recover from a hysterectomy? 

Recovering from a hysterectomy takes time. Most women stay in the hospital from 1 to 2 days for post-surgery care. Some women may stay longer.
The time it takes for you to resume normal activities depends on the type of surgery. If you had:
• Abdominal surgery. Recovery takes from 4 to 6 weeks. You will gradually be able to increase your activities.
• Vaginal or laparoscopic surgery. Recovery takes 3 to 4 weeks. 

Recovery from the ExAblate Treatment 

The ExAblate Treatment is an outpatient procedure with a very quick recovery. Most women can return to normal activities the next day. The procedure requires:
• No hospital stay (in most cases)
• No cutting
• No general anesthesia 

What are the risks of having a hysterectomy? 

Most women do not have health problems during or after the surgery, but some of the risks of a hysterectomy include:
• Injury to nearby organs, such as the bowel, urinary tract, bladder, rectum, or blood vessels
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Early menopause, if the ovaries are removed
• Anesthesia problems, such as breathing or heart problems
• Allergic reactions to medicines
• Blood clots in the legs or lungs. These can be fatal.
• Infection
• Heavy bleeding 

For additional long term risks of hysterectomy click here.

What are the risks of the ExAblate Treatment? 

The ExAblate Treatment does not remove any of the reproductive organs. It will not cause the serious complications often associated with invasive surgery.
However, as with any medical procedure, there are risks involved with the ExAblate treatment. You may experience some abdominal pain similar to that experienced during a menstrual period, cramping, nausea, vaginal discharge, shoulder, leg or back pain from lying still during the procedure. The incidence of these complications is relatively low. As with any procedure that leaves the uterus in tact, there is a risk that the treatment may not be successful and you may require an alternative treatment. 

Learn more about ExAblate.
Learn more about hysterectomy.

Contact us for more information about the non-invasive uterine fibroids treatment.