Endometrial Cryoablation

Overview

This outpatient procedure is used to treat abnormal vaginal bleeding by destroying the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium. It takes about 30 minutes to complete.

Preparation

In preparation for the procedure, the patient is positioned and local anesthesia is administered. The physician inserts a speculum into the vagina to allow access to the cervix.

Accessing the Uterus

The cervix is cleansed with an antiseptic wash. The physician carefully inserts a small probe through the cervix and into the uterus. An ultrasound device placed against the abdomen is used to guide and monitor the probe.

Treating the Uterus

The probe is slowly cooled, freezing the portion of the endometrial tissue surrounding the probe’s tip. This frozen tissue is allowed to warm for a few minutes, and then the freezing process is repeated to freeze the rest of the endometrial tissue. This destroys the entire endometrial lining within the uterus.

End of Procedure and Aftercare

When the procedure is finished, the patient will rest briefly in a recovery room and will then be allowed to go home. The physician will provide specific aftercare instructions. In the days after the procedure, a layer of scar tissue will form to replace the destroyed endometrial lining in the uterus. Most women will have little or no menstrual bleeding following the ablation. Because the uterus will no longer be healthy enough to support the proper development of an embryo, effective birth control or sterilization must be used to prevent pregnancy after ablation.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.