The feasibility of infra-red skin temperature monitoring in the prevention of skin burn and nerve injury during HIFU ablation of fibroids and adenomyoma

High Intensity Focused Ultrasound ablation therapy for fibroids and adenomyoma has been increasingly applied in Gynecology. It is now considered a safe surgery with effectiveness compatible to open or laparoscopic myomectomy. However, to further minimize its potential risks of skin burn to the buttocks and nerve injury, this paper studied the skin temperature changes as monitored by infrared thermography in an attempt to identify the risks during HIFU treatment. Although the infrared imaging technology is safe and feasible to monitor the skin temperature changes during HIFU ablation, there isn’t enough conclusive evidence to prove it can be used to avoid skin burn at the buttock or nerve injury.