Radiofrequency Ablation (Acessa)

The University of Chicago Medicine is one of few medical centers nationwide offering radiofrequency ablation of fibroids.

How Acessa Shrinks and Removes Fibroid Tumors

Radiofrequency thermal ablation, most commonly known as Acessa, is an outpatient procedure that destroys living fibroid tissue using a thin radiofrequency needle. During a laparoscopic gynecologic procedure, Acessa can thermally dehydrate the fibroid in the uterus. Then, the body’s natural process gradually reabsorbs the fibroid into surrounding tissue in the uterus.

Acessa is performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. Patients typically resume normal activities within a week.

Alternative to the Acessa Procedure

Acessa enables some patients to keep their uterus and obtain relief from their symptoms without a larger surgery. It is important to know that depending on the size and location of your fibroid, Acessa may not be an appropriate option for you.

For patients who desire to maintain their fertility, we recommend myomectomy because the effects of Acessa on future pregnancy are unknown.

At a Glance: Acessa Procedure vs. Minimally Invasive Myomectomy

Procedure	Acessa	Minimally Invasive Myomectomy
Doctor	Performed by gynecologic surgeon	Performed by gynecologic surgeon
Surgical or Nonsurgical	Requires small incisions in the abdomen	Does not require incisions in the abdomen if performed via hysteroscope; requires small incisions if performed robotically or laparoscopically
Anesthesia	General anesthesia	General anesthesia
How It Works	Shrinks fibroids by using controlled heat to destroy fibroid tissue; preserves the uterus	Removes fibroids surgically; preserves the uterus
Inpatient or Outpatient	Patients usually go home the same day.	Patients usually go home the same day after hysteroscopic and most laparoscopic or robotic myomectomies.
Recovery	Quick recovery (less than a week)	Quick recovery (less than a week for hysteroscopy; up to two weeks for laparoscopy or robotic)
Pregnancy and Fertility	Effects on future pregnancy are uncertain	Option for patients desiring future pregnancy

Meet Our Acessa Procedure Specialist

Nicole D. Edison, MD

Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN)

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