An MRI scan at Tam Anh General Hospital Ho Chi Minh City revealed uterine fibroids of types 3, 4, 5, and 6, along with adenomyosis (endometriosis within the uterine muscle), ovarian endometriosis, adhesion and pulling on the anterior rectal wall, and a right adnexal mass. The right ovary also contained a large cyst measuring 11 x 12 cm.

After a consultation, Doctor Huynh Ba Tan of the Department of Surgical Oncology, Oncology Center, decided to perform a hysterectomy, remove the right ovarian cyst, and conduct an abdominoplasty for the patient. The surgery was complex due to long-standing endometriosis and fibroids, which caused the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding organs to adhere tightly, pull, and lose natural anatomical boundaries.

Doctor Tan and the surgical oncology team perform surgery on Hong. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

The team used an ultrasonic scalpel to meticulously dissect layers of fibrous tissue, removing the cysts while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible to maximize endocrine function.

Doctor Tan then removed excess skin and fat from the abdomen, followed by tightening the abdominal muscles. After four hours, the doctors successfully removed the 3 kg fibroid and reduced the size of Hong's abdomen.

Doctor Tan examines Hong after surgery. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Uterine fibroids are benign growths that develop from the muscular layer of the uterus. Factors contributing to uterine fibroids include increased estrogen and progesterone hormones, genetics, and an increase in extracellular matrix.

Endometriosis, on the other hand, involves tissue similar to the uterine lining that migrates and grows outside this organ, such as in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and peritoneum. This condition can result from immune system disorders, retrograde menstruation where menstrual blood flows through the fallopian tubes into the abdominal cavity instead of exiting through the vagina, peritoneal cells transforming into endometrial tissue, or genetics.

Doctors advise women to undergo regular health check-ups for early detection and timely treatment of any abnormalities. If uterine fibroids, endometriosis, or ovarian cysts requiring surgery are discovered, delaying treatment is not recommended. This prevents the growths from enlarging, causing compression, invading muscle layers, leading to complications, and reducing the ability to conceive and give birth.

Khai Minh

*Patient's name has been changed