Evolving Referral Patterns and Management Following Implementation of a Multidisciplinary Fibroid Center: A...

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Interventional Radiology

Background:

• Symptomatic fibroids significantly impact women's health.
• Management often involves complex decision-making regarding surgical and non-surgical options.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a multidisciplinary fibroid center on patient management.
• To assess changes in consultation patterns and treatment modalities post-center establishment.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study comparing pre- and post-fibroid center establishment.
• Analysis of patient consultations with minimally invasive gynecologic surgery (MIGS) and interventional radiology (IR) specialists.
• Data collection on treatment pathways and utilization of procedures like uterine artery embolization (UAE).

Main Results:

• Increased consultations with MIGS and IR specialists post-center.
• Higher rates of patients seeking additional opinions and undergoing uterine artery embolization (UAE).
• Increased utilization of MRI for diagnosis and treatment planning.

Conclusions:

• Multidisciplinary fibroid centers enhance patient counseling and access to specialized care.
• Integration of MIGS and IR promotes the use of minimally invasive treatments for fibroids.
• These centers facilitate comprehensive management of symptomatic uterine fibroids.