HOLLAND, Mich., June 7, 2023 — Holland Hospital is leading the way as the first hospital in West Michigan to offer new hope to women facing debilitating symptoms caused by uterine fibroids. The hospital recently began utilizing the Sonata® System by Gynesonics, offering women an incision-less treatment that addresses fibroids in a single, outpatient procedure.
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that appear in or around the uterus and can range in size from an apple seed to a grapefruit. Fibroids may cause uncomfortable symptoms including heavy menstrual bleeding, pressure or swelling in the abdomen, painful periods, frequent urination, constipation, infertility and pain during intercourse.
The new outpatient procedure uses a miniature ultrasound probe accessed through the cervix and into the uterus. Once the fibroid is located, radiofrequency is applied directly without damaging the surrounding tissue. Since no tissue is cut or surgically removed, the uterus is preserved, which maintains the possibility of pregnancy for patients.
“The Sonata procedure allows women to receive treatment for fibroids without needing a hysterectomy or a myomectomy, both of which have longer recovery times that affect the life of patients,” said Kristyn Oswald, MD, Obstetrics & Gynecology. “In most cases Sonata allows patients to go home the same day without causing a major disruption to their daily life.”
Recovery time is generally shorter compared to traditional surgery, and most women can resume their normal activities within a few days. The Sonata treatment addresses the growing preference of doctors and women seeking less-invasive procedures that preserve the uterus and minimize treatment recovery time. Dr. Oswald suggests that women struggling with fibroids speak with their doctor to see if they are a candidate.
Fibroids are very common in women of childbearing age. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, more than 2 million women undergo treatment for uterine fibroids. Until recently, the most common surgical solution was a hysterectomy, which is a significant surgical procedure that removes the entire uterus.
Holland Hospital is recognized as a leader in surgical excellence receiving honors including Healthgrades’ #1 in Michigan and America’s 50 Best Hospitals for Surgical Care 2022, 2023; and Top 5% in the Nation for Outstanding Patient Experience 15 years in a row.
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