Hydrothermal ablation. A new simple method for coagulating endometrium in patients with therapy-resistant recurring hypermenorrhea

Contrib Gynecol Obstet. 2000:20:154-60. doi: 10.1159/000060276.

Abstract

Hydrothermablation is a new method which could replace the electrosurgical method of endometrial ablation. Some prospective studies were carried out to assess efficacy, safety and tolerability of hydrothermablation in the treatment of recurrent menorrhagias. Hydrothermablation is an intervention with coagulation at the endometrium: temperature 90 degrees C and duration 10 min with simultaneous hysteroscopic control. In a follow-up of least 12 months, about 35% of the patients had an amenorrhea and the treatment was successful (reduction of pathological blood flow) in about 87% of the patients. Complications were vaginal burns in 2 cases. No other intra- or postoperative complications occurred. Hydrothermablation is a safe and effective method for treatment of recurrent menorrhagias. This method offers a simple possibility to perform endometrial ablation without extensive training of the surgeon and can contribute to avoid hysterectomy.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Catheter Ablation / methods*
  • Endometrium / surgery*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hyperthermia, Induced / adverse effects
  • Hyperthermia, Induced / methods
  • Menorrhagia / surgery*
  • Multicenter Studies as Topic
  • Pilot Projects