Endometriosis treatment with shock waves: A novel approach

E Melki, Emile Melki, Melki E
Medical hypotheses · 2019 · vol. 124 , pp. 114–117 · doi:10.1016/j.mehy.2019.02.022 · PMID:30798904 · W2915009107
Other OA: closed CC0 ⤵ 2 in-corpus citations
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This paper explores the novel approach of treating endometriosis using shock wave therapy, investigating its potential efficacy and mechanisms.

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Abstract

Endometriosis affects 10-15% of women. When medication is unsatisfactory, not well tolerated or unwanted, surgery remains the sole option. There is a need for a less invasive treatment. We suggest the application of shock wave therapy (SWT) to endometriotic nodules (including deep infiltrating endometriosis), endometriomas and adenomyosis. We hypothesize pain relief via an antiinflammatory effect, an antioxidant effect and neural pathways modulation, as well as a direct effect on the lesions by the energy thus delivered. Questions to be answered before a clinical application is tested include route of administration (external versus internal transducers), dose regimen, optimal duration of treatment and type of shock waves used (focalised versus radial).

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Condition tags

endometriosis

MeSH descriptors

Endometriosis Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy Adenomyosis Adenomyosis Adenomyosis Anti-Inflammatory Agents Anti-Inflammatory Agents Anti-Inflammatory Agents Antioxidants Antioxidants Antioxidants Endometriosis Endometriosis Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy Female Female Humans Humans Models, Theoretical

Citation neighborhood

Papers in the corpus that this work cites (lower rings, blue) and that cite this one (upper rings, green). Dot size scales with the paper's in-corpus citation count — bigger dot = more influential within the endo/adeno field. Click a dot to open that paper. [ expand to 2 hops ] — adds papers reached through this work's immediate citers/citees. Heavier; up to 60 extra dots.

References (61)

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License: CC0 · commercial use OK