Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the clinical outcomes of microwave endometrial ablation and thermal balloon ablation for the treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding. DESIGN: A double blind randomised controlled trial. SETTING: A UK teaching hospital. POPULATION: Three hundred and twenty women requesting endometrial ablation. METHODS: Operative data collection and patient completed postal questionnaires were used to ascertain women's satisfaction with outcome, acceptability of each procedure, changes in menstrual symptoms and health related quality of life and additional treatments received. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Primary outcomes were satisfaction and menstrual scores 1 year. Secondary outcomes were operative differences, acceptability of treatment and changes in health related quality of life. RESULTS: Both technologies achieved high levels of satisfaction (-1%, 95% CI (-11, 9)). Menstrual scores were also similar (4%, 95% CI (-7, 19)) Microwave had a significantly shorter operating time, reduced usage of antiemetics and opiate analgesia, increased discharge by 6 hours and fewer device failures. CONCLUSIONS: Both treatments are acceptable to women, with high levels of satisfaction. Microwave is quicker to perform with faster hospital discharge.

Original publication

DOI

10.1111/j.1471-0528.2009.02181.x

Type

Journal article

Journal

Bjog

Publication Date

07/2009

Volume

116

Pages

1038 - 1045

Keywords

Adult, Catheterization, Double-Blind Method, Endometrial Ablation Techniques, Female, Humans, Length of Stay, Menorrhagia, Microwaves, Patient Satisfaction, Quality of Life, Treatment Outcome