There is not enough evidence about how well this procedure works and it can cause potentially serious complications. Fibroids are not cancerous. But rarely they contain cancer cells that have not been diagnosed. This procedure has a risk of spreading undiagnosed cancer cells to healthy tissues. The risk is higher in people over 50 or after the menopause (when periods stop).
If you are 50 or under, or before the menopause, this procedure can only be done with special arrangements. This means you will have regular appointments afterwards to check how well it is working or if it has caused problems.
If you are over 50 or have had the menopause, this procedure should not be used.
Your healthcare professional should talk to you about other treatment options.
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths in or around the womb (uterus). In this procedure, which is done under a general anaesthetic, the fibroids are cut into small pieces (morcellation) using a specifically designed device and removed using keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery through the abdomen. If a hysterectomy is planned, morcellation could be used to also remove part or all of the uterus. The aim is to reduce symptoms caused by fibroids.
The NHS website may have information on your condition and treatment options.
You can search the NHS website for information about consultants and hospitals that offer this procedure.
Is this procedure right for me?
You should be included in making decisions about your care.
Your healthcare professionals should explain the risks and benefits of this procedure and how it is done. They should discuss your options and listen carefully to your views and concerns. They should offer you more information about the procedure. Your family or carers can be involved if you want or need them to be.
You will be asked to decide whether you agree (consent) to have the procedure. Find out more about giving consent to treatment on the NHS website.
Some questions to think about
- How many appointments will I need?
- What are the possible benefits? How likely am I to get them?
- What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
- Will I have to stay in hospital?
- What happens if it does not work or something goes wrong?
- What happens if I do not want the procedure?
- Are other treatments available?
More information
- NICE's information on interventional procedures guidance explains what an interventional procedure is and how we assess it.
- NICE’s information on interventional procedures recommendations explains what special arrangements are.
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