Non-invasive ultrasound treatment for uterine fibroids
Ultrasound-guided Intrinsic Threshold Histotripsy for the Non-invasive Ablation of Uterine Fibroids
This study is testing a new ultrasound method to safely treat uterine fibroids without surgery, making it easier for women to recover and keep their reproductive health intact.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Blacksburg, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10684104 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new ultrasound technique called intrinsic threshold histotripsy to non-invasively treat uterine fibroids, which are common benign tumors in women. The approach aims to overcome the limitations of existing thermal ultrasound treatments, which can cause complications and require lengthy recovery times. By using focused ultrasound, the goal is to effectively ablate fibroids without the need for surgery, thus preserving reproductive function and minimizing hospital stays. The research team has already shown promising results in preliminary studies, indicating that this method could be a viable alternative to traditional surgical options.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women of reproductive age who have been diagnosed with uterine fibroids and are seeking non-surgical treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have uterine fibroids or those who have fibroids that are not suitable for ultrasound treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safer, non-invasive treatment option for women suffering from uterine fibroids, reducing the need for surgeries like hysterectomy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that histotripsy can effectively treat other conditions, suggesting that this novel approach may also be successful for uterine fibroids.
Where this research is happening
Blacksburg, United States
- Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ — Blacksburg, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vlaisavljevich, Eli — Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
- Study coordinator: Vlaisavljevich, Eli
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.