Endometrial ablation

Endometrial ablation is a procedure that uses a lighted viewing instrument (hysteroscope) and other instruments to destroy (ablate) the uterine lining, or endometrium. Endometrial ablation can be done by:

• Laser beam (laser thermal ablation).
• Heat (thermal ablation), using:
  • Radiofrequency.
  • A balloon filled with saline solution that has been heated to 85° C (185° F) (thermal balloon ablation).
  • Normal saline (heated free fluid).
• Electricity, using a resectoscope with a loop or rolling ball electrode.
• Freezing.
• Microwave.

The endometrium heals by scarring, which usually reduces or prevents uterine bleeding.

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