Welcome to comprehensive fibroid care in London
As London's premier destination for private fibroid treatment in London, we pride ourselves on delivering a personal and expert approach to both myomectomy and hysterectomy for fibroids. Our team, led by Mr Osama Naji (a renowned specialists in the field), employs the latest techniques and technologies to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. From the initial consultation to the final stages of recovery, our commitment to your health and well-being is our utmost priority.
How much does a fibroid myomectomy cost?
There is a considerable price range when discussing the cost of private myomectomy for fibroids. This broad range is due to a number of individual circumstances such as the size, location and number of fibroids. As a result, the costs can vary significantly from one patient to another. Therefore it is always advisable to have a consultation prior to discussing treatment options and prices.
The management and costs associated with fibroid myomectomy can be a complex issue because it needs to be tailored to the individual. This personalisation is crucial because, as we've discussed in previous posts (Can HRT make fibroids worse and HRT and fibroids NHS), fibroids can cause a spectrum of symptoms including pain, bleeding, fertility issues, or pressure symptoms. In turn, these symptoms largely depend on the fibroids' number, location, size, and their relation to the uterine cavity. Some women may experience no symptoms at all, while others may have specific symptoms or a combination thereof. Therefore, the approach to managing fibroids and the costs involved in doing so are determined by the primary symptoms that the patient is facing.
Management strategies must consider various factors, such as whether the fibroids are causing related problems, the patient's medical history (including any previous open or laparoscopic surgeries), the patient's overall health and body weight, smoking and drinking habits and any other surgical risk factors that might complicate surgery such as complex adhesions from previous surgeries.
Therefore, before considering a private myomectomy for fibroids it is best to schedule an initial consultation. Please also read our page on fees and insurance policies where you can find more information.
Which hospital is best for fibroid surgery in the UK
Mr. Osama Naji of the Rylon Clinic advises that selecting the ideal hospital for fibroid surgery in the UK requires a comprehensive view that includes the expertise of the surgeon, the entirety of the hospital's offerings, including the quality of equipment, the professionalism and supportiveness of the nursing staff, and the thoroughness of pre-operative assessments. According to Mr. Naji, who brings his rich experience from central London's high-standard medical facilities, a hospital that integrates these elements into its care delivery is likely to provide the best outcomes for fibroid surgery.
The Rylon Clinic, situated in the heart of central London, emerges as a distinguished choice for this procedure. It leverages its strategic location, advanced gynaecology scanning capabilities, and Mr. Naji's extensive experience and bilingual ability to offer a comprehensive care experience. Its unique approach integrates advanced diagnostics, patient education, and follow-up care, catering especially to a clientele that values understanding and engagement in their treatment process.
With a foundation in both private and NHS sectors, notably Mr. Naji's affiliation with Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital, the Rylon Clinic embodies the high standards of patient care, making it an ideal option for those seeking myomectomy for fibroids. The clinic's dedication to providing a one-stop gynaecology service in a caring and supportive environment ensures that patients receive not just treatment, but a holistic care experience.
What is myomectomy?
A myomectomy is a specialised surgical procedure aimed at removing fibroids from the uterus. Fibroids, which are benign tumours that grow in the muscular tissue of the uterus, can cause a range of symptoms including heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, abdominal pressure and may be infertility. The primary goal of a myomectomy is to alleviate these symptoms while preserving the uterus's reproductive potential. This aspect of the procedure is particularly important for women who wish to retain their fertility, making it a preferred option for those who are still in their reproductive years but suffer from fibroid-related complications.
Myomectomy is most appropriate for women in their 20s, 30s, and up to their mid-40s who are experiencing significant discomfort or health issues due to fibroids and are considering pregnancy in the future. The procedure is tailored to remove fibroids while minimally impacting the uterine tissue, aiming to maintain the uterus's integrity and function for potential future pregnancies.
However, it's important to note that myomectomy may not be advisable for all patients. For women who have completed their families or have reached menopause, the benefits of a myomectomy may be outweighed by the risks, such as scarring of the uterus. In these cases, alternative treatments, including hysterectomy (the complete removal of the uterus), may be recommended. A hysterectomy eliminates the possibility of fibroid recurrence but also ends the uterus's reproductive capability, making it a decision that requires careful consideration based on the individual's health status and personal preferences.
What happens during myomectomy surgery?
Myomectomy, a surgical procedure aimed at removing uterine fibroids, can be performed using various techniques, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. The four main types of myomectomy surgery are hysteroscopic, open myomectomy (also known as laparotomy), robotically-assisted or laparoscopic myomectomy. Here's an outline of each type, including their advantages and disadvantages:
1.Hysteroscopic myomectomy
Benefits:
- Minimally invasive: this procedure is performed through the vagina and cervix, eliminating the need for abdominal incisions.
- Recovery time: patients typically experience a quicker recovery compared to other surgical methods, often resuming normal activities within a few days.
- Preservation of uterine integrity: ideal for removing submucosal fibroids only (those that grow into the uterine cavity), it preserves the uterus's structure, which is beneficial for future fertility.
Drawbacks:
- Limited to certain fibroids: only suitable for removing fibroids that are within or bulging into the uterine cavity (submucosal).
- Risk of perforation: there's a small risk of uterine perforation or damage to the uterus.
- May need to be completed over more than one attempt, especially if the submucosal fibroid is >3cm
2. Open myomectomy
Benefits:
- Effective for large or numerous fibroids: allows the surgeon to remove large fibroids or multiple fibroids in various parts of the uterus.
- Direct visualisation: the surgeon has a direct view of the uterus, which can improve the accuracy of fibroid removal.
- Shorter anaesthetic time than laparoscopic/robotic approach.
Drawbacks:
- Longer recovery: as an invasive procedure requiring an abdominal incision, it has a slightly longer recovery period.
- Scarring: there's a risk of scar tissue formation on the uterus, which can affect fertility and increase the risk of complications in future pregnancies.
- More painful: post-operative pain and discomfort are typically more noticeable than with less invasive methods.
3. Robotically-assisted and laparoscopic myomectomy
Benefits:
- Precision: robotic assistance provides the surgeon with enhanced dexterity and precision, potentially reducing the risk of damage to surrounding tissues.
- Minimally invasive: small incisions are made in the abdomen, leading to less scarring and a quicker recovery than open myomectomy.
- Improved recovery time: patients usually have a shorter hospital stay and faster return to normal activities compared to open surgery.
Drawbacks:
- Cost: this method can be more expensive due to the use of specialised robotic/laparoscopic equipment.
- Accessibility: not available in all hospitals, as it requires specialised training and settings.
- Limited to certain cases: may not be suitable for all types of fibroids or for women with a very large number of fibroids.
- Longer anaesthetic time than open approach.
Each myomectomy method has its ideal applications based on the size, location, and number of fibroids, as well as the patient's overall health, fertility considerations, and personal preferences. When considering myomectomy at the Rylon Clinic, patients can benefit from a thorough evaluation and consultation with experienced professionals like Mr. Osama Naji, who can advise on the most appropriate surgical approach tailored to their individual needs and goals. The clinic's advanced facilities and patient-centred approach ensure that women receive the highest standard of care, whether they opt for a hysteroscopic, open, or robotically-assisted laparoscopic myomectomy.
An important note about uterine sarcomas
While uterine fibroids are non-cancerous (benign) growths in the uterus, the broader trend of rising cancer diagnoses reflects advancements in medical diagnostics that allow for earlier and more accurate detection of various conditions, including cancers.
The transition from fibroids to sarcoma
The concern that fibroids could potentially undergo malignant transformation into sarcoma, though rare, is significant. Uterine sarcoma is a type of cancer that occurs in the muscles or other supportive tissues of the uterus. Recognising this potential transition is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. The rarity of sarcomatous changes in fibroids should not lead to complacency, as the outcomes of such transformations can be severe.
Identifying potential sarcomatous changes
The rapid increase in the size of fibroids or a sudden worsening of symptoms, such as significantly increased size of the fibroid, more severe bleeding pattern, pain, or pressure in the abdominal area, can be red flags for sarcomatous changes. These symptoms warrant immediate medical attention for further investigation. The process of diagnosing uterine sarcoma involves a combination of imaging studies, such as ultrasound or MRI. It's important to approach the diagnosis of sarcoma with thoroughness and precision, given the implications of a cancer diagnosis.
The importance of awareness and early detection
The information provided by Mr. Naji underscores the importance of awareness among women with fibroids about the potential, albeit rare, risk of sarcomatous changes. Regular monitoring of fibroids, especially those that exhibit sudden growth or changes in symptoms, is vital for early detection of any malignancy.
Fibroid mapping prior to myomectomy
The initial step in the management of fibroids involves detailed fibroid mapping, which is critical for formulating an effective treatment plan. It is very important for this process to be conducted by an experienced gynaecologist, particularly one who is well-versed in ultrasound technology. Ultrasound serves as a primary tool for the non-invasive visualisation and characterisation of fibroids, offering valuable insights into their size, number, and location within the uterus. This accurate mapping is essential for deciding whether myomectomy is the most suitable treatment option and, if so, planning the surgical approach.
The use of MRI in complex cases
While ultrasound is an effective diagnostic tool for many cases, its limitations in assessing large fibroids or providing comprehensive mapping are acknowledged. In such instances, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) becomes invaluable. MRI offers enhanced imaging capabilities, allowing for precise mapping of fibroids, identification of potential cancerous changes, and evaluation of the uterus and surrounding tissues in greater detail. This level of diagnostic accuracy is particularly beneficial for surgical planning, especially in cases where complex surgery is anticipated.
Rylon Clinic's multidisciplinary and advanced technological support
At the Rylon Clinic, the commitment to providing state-of-the-art gynaecological care is evident in its utilisation of both ultrasound and MRI technologies, supported by a multidisciplinary team. This approach ensures that even in rare cases where ultrasound may not suffice, the clinic is prepared to instantly arrange for advanced MRI imaging. Such capability underscores the clinic's dedication to thorough and precise diagnostic processes, enabling tailored surgical plans that address the unique needs of each patient.
The Rylon Clinic, situated in the vibrant heart of central London, offers a unique blend of advanced diagnostic capabilities, expert clinical care, and a patient-centred approach. Its focus on employing a multidisciplinary strategy, including the latest in radiology technology, positions the clinic as a leader in the management and treatment of uterine fibroids. Patients at the Rylon Clinic benefit from the expertise of seasoned professionals like Mr. Naji, who not only brings a wealth of experience but also a commitment to personalised and compassionate care.
In summary, the approach to fibroid management and the decision to proceed with myomectomy at the Rylon Clinic is informed by a comprehensive evaluation, utilising the best available diagnostic tools and a multidisciplinary team's expertise. This ensures that patients receive the most accurate diagnosis, effective treatment plan, and the highest standard of care, reflecting the clinic's mission to combine educational goals with clinical excellence.
Author: Mr Osama Naji
Mr Naji offers a “one-stop” gynaecology clinic for instant detection of various gynaecological cancers as well as providing all the diagnostic and treatment services needed under one roof.
Mr Naji provides advanced gynaecology scanning which is essential when conducting any gynaecology consultation, he is bilingual in English and Arabic and has an NHS base at the highly reputable Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital in London.
He is passionate about raising awareness of various subtle signs and symptoms of gynaecological conditions that are often overlooked by patients.
You can read more about Mr Naji on his about page here.