Richardson Thermachoice Endometrial Ablation

UNDERSTANDING THE THERMACHOICE ENDOMETRIAL ABLATION PROCEDURE

Thermachoice Endometrial Ablation is a procedure that destroys the lining of the uterus called the endometrium, which is the portion that bleeds each month. Destroying the endometrium reduces the amount of menstrual bleeding each month or, in some cases, completely eliminates the bleeding.

The Thermachoice Procedure

Thermachoice Endometrial Ablation can be performed either in the office setting or as an outpatient procedure. When done in the office setting, the patient is given medications prior to the procedure to reduce anxiety and discomfort.

The Thermachoice device consists of a balloon system with a heating element. The deflated balloon is filled to the appropriate pressure with a sugar-water solution, and the device inside the balloon heats the fluid to a preset temperature. The balloon forms to the cavity of the uterus, thus allowing all surfaces to be appropriately treated. The treatment time is only 8 minutes long, and the entire thermachoice endometrial ablation process takes approximately 20 minutes, which includes the numbing process around the cervix, the hysteroscopy (looking inside the uterus with a small camera), and the actual ablation with the balloon.

Patients do not need to fast before the procedure and most are able to return to work within 1-3 days.

Patients Who Benefit From Thermachoice Endometrial Ablation

The Thermachoice Endometrial Ablation system has been successfully used for over 10 years and has had many improvements to the system during this time period. It is successful in 98% of women who have it done, and approximately 45% of women will have no menstrual periods following the procedure. The patient is provided with a heating pad, in addition to the medications given minutes prior to the procedure, to help reduce cramping that may occur. Some patients may experience transient symptoms such as dry mouth, ringing in the ears and heart racing for a few minutes at the time of the cervical numbing. These symptoms go away within a few minutes. Patients may experience a watery vaginal discharge lasting for three to six weeks, which may begin within a week of having the procedure. The patient may also experience a heavy menstrual cycle during this time. Mild to moderate cramping is expected in most people for 24-48 hours following the procedure, for which pain medications are provided. Please call Advanced Ob-Gyn Associates or visit PelvicHealthSolutions.com for more information.