Endometrial ablation
Endometrial ablation is a surgical procedure in which a laser beam, electricity, or heat is used to destroy the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium).
Before the procedure, anesthesia is given to block pain, then a lighted viewing instrument (hysteroscope) is inserted into the uterus through the vagina to allow the surgeon to see.
Endometrial ablation may be done to reduce heavy, prolonged menstrual bleeding or other abnormal vaginal bleeding. The lining of the uterus heals by scarring, which usually reduces or prevents bleeding.
| Author | Kathe Gallagher, MSW |
| Author | Debby Golonka, MPH |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Liisa Honey, MD, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology |
| Last Updated | February 22, 2006 |
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Last Updated:
February 22, 2006
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