Endometrial Ablation
Women who are experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding and who have completed childbearing may be good candidates for endometrial ablation – treatment of the lining (endometrium) of the uterus, which reduces, or eliminates, future bleeding. Endometrial ablation is a safe, simple procedure that controls heavy menstrual bleeding without the need for hormones and may be an alternative to a hysterectomy for some patients.
There are several ways to perform an endometrial ablation using various devices (i.e. Novasure, ThermaChoice, and HydroThermAblator). Our physicians are familiar with all of these methods and will determine which is right for you. Most endometrial ablations can be performed under local anesthesia at our Libertyville office.
If you are planning to become pregnant in the future, endometrial ablation is not for you. Pregnancy following endometrial ablation is very dangerous for both the mother and the fetus and should not be attempted. Some form of birth control should be used after endometrial ablation.
Your doctor will discuss this option with you to determine if it is right for your condition.
How NovaSure® Endometrial Ablation is Performed
NovaSure uses radio frequency (RF) to remove the lining of the uterus. Performed in the office, using local anesthetic, your doctor slightly dilates the cervix and inserts a slender wand through the cervix into the uterus (1). The doctor then extends a triangular mesh material through the wand, where it expands to conform to the dimensions of the uterine cavity (2). Radio Frequency energy is then delivered into the uterus for approximately 90 seconds (3). The triangular mesh array is then removed from the uterus (4).
For a patient brochure on NovaSure®
http://www.novasure.com/irregular-period/novasure-procedure.cfm?src=aw&camp=S&gclid=COyKtJHQyZICFQE8xwodhkNibA
How GyneCare ThermaChoice ® Uterine Balloon Procedure is Performed
After receiving local anesthetic, the doctor inserts a balloon through the neck of the womb (cervix) and into the uterus. Through a catheter connected to a controller console, the balloon is inflated with fluid and heated to 188 F (87 C) for eight minutes to destroy the uterine lining.
For a patient brochure on ThermaChoice ® Uterine Balloon System:
http://www.endheavyperiods.com/about.html
http://www.
How the Hydro ThermAblator ® is Performed
After receiving local anesthetic, this office procedure involves delivery of hot salt water (saline solution) into the uterus through a tube inserted into the cervix. The hot water destroys the uterine lining in about 10 minutes. The doctor uses a hysteroscope for viewing the uterus during the procedure.
For patient education information on HydroThermAblator ®:
http://www.uterus1.com/care/uterusprocedure20.cfm/15?CFID=118223604&CFTOKEN=98564578
If you are scheduled for Endometrial Ablation at our office:
Patient Instructions and Consent Form