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dysfunctional uterine bleeding & uterine fibroids - Health Plan of ...

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In an updated practice bulletin, ACOG states that the levonorgestrel intra<strong>uterine</strong> system leads to<br />

minimal systemic effects, and the localized endometrial effect is beneficial for treatment <strong>of</strong><br />

menorrhagia. Small studies suggest that the levonorgestrel intra<strong>uterine</strong> system may be effective for<br />

treatment <strong>of</strong> heavy <strong>uterine</strong> <strong>bleeding</strong> in women with leiomyomas. However, these women may have a<br />

higher rate <strong>of</strong> expulsion and vaginal spotting. (ACOG, 2008)<br />

Uterine Artery Embolization<br />

American College <strong>of</strong> Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)<br />

In a committee opinion on <strong>uterine</strong> artery embolization (UAE), ACOG makes the following statement.<br />

Based on current evidence, it appears that <strong>uterine</strong> artery embolization, when performed by experienced<br />

physicians, provides good short-term relief <strong>of</strong> bulk-related symptoms and a reduction in menstrual<br />

flow. Complication rates associated with the procedure are low, but in rare cases can include<br />

hysterectomy and death. There is insufficient evidence to ensure its safety in women desiring to retain<br />

their fertility, and pregnancy-related outcomes remain understudied. ACOG considers the procedure<br />

investigational or relatively contraindicated in women wishing to retain fertility. The use <strong>of</strong> <strong>uterine</strong><br />

artery embolization in postmenopausal women is rarely, if ever, indicated (ACOG, 2004).<br />

In a separate practice bulletin on alternatives to hysterectomy in managing <strong>uterine</strong> <strong>fibroids</strong>, ACOG<br />

states that based on long- and short-term outcomes, <strong>uterine</strong> artery embolization is a safe and effective<br />

option for appropriately selected women who wish to retain their uteri (ACOG, 2008).<br />

WOU001<br />

U.S. FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION (FDA)<br />

Endometrial Ablation<br />

Devices for thermal ablation <strong>of</strong> the endometrium are regulated by the FDA as Class III devices that are<br />

subject to the most extensive regulations enforced by the FDA. See the following website for more<br />

information (use product codes MNB or MKN):<br />

http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfPMA/pma.cfm. Accessed June 30, 2010.<br />

The HerOption Uterine Cryoblation Therapy System received premarket approval (PMA) on April 20,<br />

2001. The device is a closed-cycle cryosurgical device intended to ablate the endometrial lining <strong>of</strong> the<br />

uterus in premenopausal women with menorrhagia due to benign causes for whom childbearing is<br />

complete. See the following website for more information:<br />

http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfTopic/pma/pma.cfm?num=p000032. Accessed<br />

June 30, 2010.<br />

ThermaChoice received premarket approval (PMA) on December 12, 1997 for the treatment <strong>of</strong><br />

menorrhagia (excessive <strong>uterine</strong> <strong>bleeding</strong>) due to benign causes in premenopausal women for whom<br />

child bearing is complete. See the following website for more information:<br />

http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfPMA/pma.cfm?id=1088. Accessed June 30, 2010.<br />

Hydro ThermAblator received premarket approval (PMA) on April 20, 2001 to ablate the endometrial<br />

lining <strong>of</strong> the uterus in premenopausal women with menorrhagia (excessive <strong>uterine</strong> <strong>bleeding</strong>) due to<br />

benign causes for whom child bearing is complete. See the following website for more information:<br />

Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding & Uterine Fibroids Page 15 <strong>of</strong> 24

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