Specialists in women's health at UCSF are conducting two studies on women with benign tumors of the uterus, known as fibroids, and/or excessive menstrual bleeding.

Both studies are part of the “MS Study” (medicine or surgery). One project is known as the hysterectomy techniques trial, which will compare the effects of total versus partial abdominal hysterectomy in women with uterine fibroids. The second project examines commonly used medical treatments versus hysterectomy among women nationwide who experience heavy uterine bleeding.

Researchers need women who meet the two studies’ criteria to participate.

Partial hysterectomy may result in lower risks of wound infection and urinary tract injury compared to a total hysterectomy because a woman's cervix is left in place during the operation, says Lee Learman, MD, PhD, UCSF principal study investigator.

"There are suggestions that women who undergo partial hysterectomies may have better sexual functioning and pelvic muscle support than women who have total hysterectomies," says Learman, who is a UCSF assistant professor of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive sciences. He adds that there is a lack of research in this area of women's health.

Women will be eligible for the hysterectomy techniques trial if they meet the following requirements:

• Premenopausal.

• Over 30 years of age.

• Experience symptomatic uterine fibroids (bleeding, pressure, or pain in the uterus).

• Are scheduled to undergo a hysterectomy.

The commonly used medical treatments versus hysterectomy study uses no experimental medications and no procedures are tested. Currently, 101 women have enrolled, and researchers are looking for a total of 2,700 participants nationwide. Learman says the inclusion criteria for participants have been expanded significantly so that more women can enroll in the study.

Women who meet the following requirements qualify for this study:

• Between 30-50 years of age.

• Experience heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, with or without uterine fibroids.

• Have completed a previous three- to five-month progestin cycle or are willing to enroll in a three- to five-month progestin regimen (non-estrogen compounds available).

The "MS Study" is a multicenter project being carried out at four sites: UCSF, UC San Diego, University of Alabama in Birmingham and University of Tennessee in Memphis.

Women who feel they meet the criteria for the UCSF clinical projects or are interested in obtaining more information should call 206-3634.

By Abby Sinnott

1st appeared 1/14/98

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