About Us

In 1999, Dr. Bruce B. Lee, a gynecologist in Monterey, California, devised a new, minimally invasive, out-patient, laparoscopic procedure using a technology called radiofrequency ablation. The procedure requires two small, 1 cm incisions, one in the umbilicus for a scope (laparoscope), and one in the bikini line for an intra-abdominal ultrasound transducer. The thin needle probe is inserted through small skin puncture sites (which do not require sutures) and is guided with laparoscopic visualization and ultrasound imaging into each fibroid. Low-energy radiofrequency current is directed through the needle probe into the fibroid, causing destruction of the tumor by heat. The spread of the heat is controlled and limited to the fibroid itself, leaving surrounding tissue unharmed. The treated fibroid is partially or completely resorbed by the muscle tissue around it, causing the overall size of the uterus to shrink. Recovery and return to most normal activities occurs in two to seven days.

Dr. Lee conducted a pilot study of 58 patients and subsequently a prospective study of 110 patients. The procedure was very effective in producing resolution of patients' symptoms, reduction in uterine size, and in allowing rapid return to normal activity.

In 2004 Halt Medical, Inc. was founded to develop and manufacture the medical device, The Halt Fibroid System™, designed specifically to ablate uterine fibroids. In three ongoing studies outside the United States, it has been successfully used to ablate 235 fibroid tumors in 70 patients. Heavy menstrual bleeding and fibroid symptoms have significantly declined, and quality of life has sharply improved.

According to Halt Medical co-founder and CEO Jeffrey M. Cohen, "We are very pleased with our clinical results and the potential to improve the lives of millions of women suffering with symptomatic uterine fibroids. Dr. Lee developed a wonderful, new surgical procedure and my longtime business partner, Dr. Gordon Epstein, designed a fabulous surgical device to easily perform it. A great team and a great product that may prevent major surgery and change women's healthcare. It doesn't get much better than that"!