Radiofrequency technology could benefit millions suffering from fibroids

A new radiofrequency ablation technology could benefit millions of women suffering from fibroids.

Luna, developed by the Cambridge-based medtech start-up Ablatus Therapeutics, aims to enhance the destruction of tumours, such as fibroids, in a minimally invasive way, allowing women to recover and return to work faster.

The tool, which allows for larger and more effective ablations, offers the potential for incisionless, fertility-preserving procedures, paving the way for a new era in treating the condition.

Fibroids remain a vastly underserved global health issue, affecting up to 80 per cent of women by the age of 50.

Although they do not always cause symptoms, up to half of the women affected may experience debilitating pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, abdominal swelling, back pain and complications during pregnancy and labour.

While all women are at risk for developing the condition, Black women are disproportionately affected, with one study showing Black women could be three times more likely to develop it than white women.

Currently the most widely practiced methods of treatments are either surgical removal of the fibroids (myomectomy) or the uterus (hysterectomy) which are highly invasive and could lead to infertility.

“Up to 80 per cent of women wish to avoid invasive surgery. I’m not surprised – if you could avoid invasive surgery and preserve your fertility, why wouldn’t you?,” said Dr Chung Looi, CEO of Ablatus Therapeutics

“With Luna, we truly believe we can make a difference. We are aiming to come up with a very well-considered and inclusive design that will improve the access, the experience and ultimately the health outcomes for women worldwide.”

The treatment, which is designed to be compatible with common, existing ultrasound systems, has the potential to significantly reduce costs for hospitals and healthcare systems.

“Because Luna is designed to be delivered in outpatient settings, women won’t have to be admitted into inpatient settings, therefore minimising waiting times and healthcare costs,” explained Chung, estimating the technology will be ready for use in the UK by 2029.

She added: “The vision is to see Luna being offered as an option in hospitals and clinics globally so that all women suffering from by fibroids who wish to preserve their fertility could do so in a minimally invasive way.”

Ablatus Therapeutics has already secured £3m of funding from investors and aims to raise additional funding through a crowdfunding campaign launched earlier this month.

The initiative is hoped to speed up product development and increase awareness around fibroids.

Chung said: “Everyone is likely to know someone who suffers from fibroids. With our crowdfunding campaign, we’d like to invite the community to back us and be part of this change. Every little helps in shaping the future together.”