Endometrioma Sclerotherapy and Ovarian Preservation
This study is for women with ovarian endometriomas, which are cysts that can develop as part of a condition called endometriosis. Doctors are comparing two ways to treat these cysts: traditional surgery, where the cyst is cut out, and a newer technique called sclerotherapy. Sclerotherapy involves using a thin needle to drain the cyst and then injecting a small amount of alcohol to help prevent it from growing back. The main goal is to find out which method is better at protecting your ovaries, which is important for future fertility. Researchers will also look at whether the cysts come back, if symptoms like pain improve, and how inflammation in the body changes. Participants will be followed for two years.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This research study is looking at how best to treat ovarian endometriomas. These are cysts that can form on the ovaries in women who have endometriosis. Endometriosis is a common condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside of the womb, often causing pain and other problems.
Currently, if these endometrioma cysts cause a lot of pain, are large, or are affecting fertility, doctors often suggest surgery to remove them. However, there's a concern that this kind of surgery might sometimes affect the health of the ovary, which could be important for future fertility. This study wants to see if a different treatment, called sclerotherapy, might be a gentler option for the ovary.
Sclerotherapy involves carefully draining the cyst and then injecting a small amount of medical alcohol into the empty space. This helps the cyst walls to stick together and reduces the chance of it growing back. By comparing sclerotherapy to the usual surgical removal, the researchers hope to find out which method is better at protecting your ovaries over time, and whether it leads to fewer cysts coming back and better symptom control.
Key takeaways
- Compares two treatments for ovarian endometriomas: traditional surgery vs. sclerotherapy.
- Aims to find out which method is better for protecting your ovaries.
- Checks if cysts return and how symptoms change over time.
- Involves regular follow-up appointments for two years.
- Participation requires careful consideration and understanding.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for women between the ages of 18 and 40 who have been told they have one or more ovarian endometrioma cysts. These cysts must be at least 2cm (about an inch) across, and they should have been seen on a scan like an ultrasound or MRI.
To be considered for this study, you should be planning to have surgery for your endometrioma. This might be because you have significant pain that hasn't improved with other treatments, or if the endometrioma is affecting your fertility and you're considering assisted reproduction.
However, you wouldn't be able to join if you've already gone through menopause, if doctors suspect the growth might be cancerous, or if you can't have certain scans. Also, you need to be able to understand information about the study in English and give your consent to take part.
- Are you a woman aged between 18 and 40?
- Do you have an endometrioma cyst on your ovary that's at least 2cm wide, confirmed by a scan?
- Are you considering surgery for your endometrioma due to pain or fertility concerns?
- Can you understand information about the study in English?
This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you will be randomly assigned to receive one of two treatments: either the standard surgical removal of your endometrioma or sclerotherapy. This means it's like flipping a coin to decide which treatment you get, and you won't be able to choose.
During whichever procedure you receive, if any other endometriosis is found, it will be treated in the usual way. After your procedure, you'll have regular check-ups over the next two years. These check-ups will involve blood tests to measure a hormone important for ovarian health (AMH), and ultrasound scans to see if the endometrioma has returned. You'll also be asked to fill out questionnaires about any symptoms you're experiencing, such as pain. In some cases, extra blood tests and a small sample from your womb lining taken during your procedure will be used to look at changes in inflammation. The total participation will be 24 months from your surgery.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Chelsea and Westminster NHS Foundation TrustLondon, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is an endometrioma?
An endometrioma is a cyst that forms on the ovary when endometrial tissue (tissue similar to the lining of the womb) grows outside the womb.
What is sclerotherapy?
Sclerotherapy is a procedure where a cyst is drained and then a special liquid, like a small amount of alcohol, is injected to help prevent it from refilling.
Why are you comparing these two treatments?
We want to see which treatment best protects the ovary's health, important for future fertility, and if one is better at preventing the cysts from coming back.
How long will I be involved in the study?
You'll be followed for a total of 24 months, or two years, from the time of your procedure.
Can I choose which treatment I get?
No, you will be randomly assigned to either surgical removal or sclerotherapy, like drawing lots, to ensure a fair comparison.
How to find out more
Sarah Bennet, BSc MBBS MRCOG
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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