Fibroid Treatment Procedures Shown to Improve Symptoms

A new study compared laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation and myomectomy in women over a two-year period.

Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Women’s Health

Fibroid Treatment Procedures Shown to Improve Symptoms

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Would you choose a fibroid treatment specifically to keep the option of vaginal childbirth?

Research findings indicate that both laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation and myomectomy provide significant, sustained improvements in symptoms and quality of life for women with uterine fibroids. The study tracked 401 participants to compare outcomes for these uterine-preserving procedures over two years.

Why it matters

For patients seeking to avoid hysterectomies while preserving fertility, identifying effective alternatives is critical. These findings suggest both surgical approaches yield comparable long-term benefits despite different clinical techniques.

In the study of 401 participants with a mean age of 39, the myomectomy group showed a 34.92-point improvement in quality of life compared to 28.29 points for the ablation group. Both outcomes surpassed the established clinical significance threshold of 20 points.

The players

Weill Cornell Medicine

This academic medical center is located in New York City and was involved in the research study.

The details

Radiofrequency ablation works by shrinking fibroids from within, whereas myomectomy involves surgically removing the tissue entirely. Although myomectomy showed slightly higher symptom reduction scores early on, differences between the procedures were not clinically significant by the two-year mark.

The study began enrolling participants in 2014.
Myomectomy patients showed modestly greater symptom improvements at 6 months post-procedure.
Between-group differences in symptom improvements disappeared by 24 months.

The Big Picture

This study marks a departure from the historical reliance on hysterectomy for uterine leiomyomas by validating these less invasive, fertility-preserving alternatives.

Patients now have verified clinical data indicating that both ablation and myomectomy are effective for symptom management and quality of life improvement. This information can help women discuss procedure options with their doctors that align with their personal fertility goals.

The takeaway

Patients experiencing uterine fibroids should consult with specialists to weigh the specific benefits of surgical removal against ablation. Both procedures offer viable paths to symptom relief without the need for a hysterectomy.