Hologic, Inc. announced it has acquired Acessa Health Inc., a privately held supplier of minimally invasive treatment for fibroids.
Acessa Health markets the Acessa ProVu system, a fully integrated laparoscopic system that combines radiofrequency ablation with advanced intra-abdominal ultrasound visualization and guidance mapping, enabling physicians to effectively and safely treat women with symptomatic, benign uterine fibroids.
Clinical studies have shown that the Acessa ProVu system is a safe and minimally invasive alternative to hysterectomy and myomectomy. The system is indicated for treatment of benign uterine fibroids and is designed to detect more fibroids as compared to current imaging modalities. Radiofrequency treatment of fibroids is supported by clinical data demonstrating less blood loss and faster recovery times as compared to standard treatments currently available.
Uterine fibroids – also referred to as uterine leiomyomas or myomas – are common, benign tumors that grow in or on the uterus. They can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pain, frequent urination, and other symptoms that lead to missed work time and limit normal daily activities. The incidence of uterine fibroids among women is between 50% and 60%, increasing to approximately 70% by age 50. African American women are two to three times more likely to be affected by fibroids, particularly at an earlier age, compared to Caucasian or Asian women, and fibroids are a significant cause of morbidity in this population.
Fibroids vary in size, number and location, and these factors determine how physicians select the optimal treatment approach for their patients. The Acessa ProVu system, which is used laparoscopically with ultrasound visualization within the abdomen to treat fibroids within the uterine wall and on the uterine surface, will complement Hologic’s market-leading MyoSure products, which can be used for hysteroscopic removal of fibroids found in the uterine cavity.
