Endometrial Ablation-Thermal, with Hysteroscopy, D&C

Endometrial Ablation-Thermal (Novasure) is specifically designed for pre-menopausal women, especially those who experience very heavy periods. Novasure Endometrial Ablation is the answer to such problems. Known for being one of the most efficient methods of Endometrial Ablation, Novasure offers quick and safe riddance from heavy periods that disrupt your life. It is a safe and approved method of destroying the endometrial lining so that you no longer have to deal with very heavy and painful menstruation.

Before the Procedure

Always tell your health care provider or nurse what drugs you are taking, even drugs, supplements, or herbs you bought without a prescription.

During the days before the surgery:

• You may be asked to stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), Warfarin (Coumadin), and any other drugs that make it hard for your blood to clot.
• Ask your health care provider which drugs you should still take on the day of your surgery.

On the day of your surgery:

• You very often will be asked not to drink or eat anything for 6 – 12 hours before the surgery.
• Take the drugs your health care provider told you to take with a small sip of water.

Your health care provider or nurse will tell you when to arrive at the hospital

 

Procedure

The Novasure Procedure is often preferred over others because it has an in-built proactive safety test. This is known as the cavity integrity assessment test in which a small amount of carbon dioxide gas is released into the uterus to verify the integrity of the cavity. If the doctor or the technician feels that something is not right, they can immediately withdraw the electrode and stop the procedure.  The Novasure method uses a thin folded electrode array, which is inserted into the uterus through the vagina. The array unfolds and spreads to conform to the shape of the uterus. Radiofrequency energy is then passed through the electrode to the tissues, thus destroying the endometrial layer. After the endometrial lining is desiccated, the electrode array is then folded back and retracted.

Recovery                    

The recovery from Endometrial Ablation Thermal (Novasure) does not take a very long time. Since the procedure is performed under general anesthesia, you may be asked to rest in the hospital till the effects of the anesthesia wear off. The doctor may ask you to stay in the hospital for longer and remain under observation. You may experience some light bleeding for a few days after the procedure.

Risks

As with any surgery there are risks, however Endometrial Ablation-Thermal (Novasure) carries the lowest risks of complications:

• Heavy Bleeding
• Infection, or thermal injuries
• Perforation of the uterine walls
• Rare risks include:

Complications from anesthesia, some other temporary side effects include brief bouts of nausea and vomiting, cramping, spotting or mild to heavy discharge.

Talk with your doctor to understand possible risks and benefits of surgery.