Pyometra after endometrial resection and ablation

Endometrial ablation: postoperative complications

Endometrial ablation as a treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding has evolved considerably over the past several decades. Postoperative complications include the following: (1) pregnancy after endometrial ablation; (2) pain-related obstructed menses (hematometra, postablation tubal sterilization syndrome); (3) failure to control menses (repeat ablation, hysterectomy); (4) risk from preexisting conditions (endometrial neoplasia, cesarean section); and (5) infection. Physicians performing endometrial ablation should be aware of postoperative complications and be able to diagnose and provide treatment for these conditions.

Bilateral cornual abscess after endometrial ablation following Essure sterilization

Endometrial ablation is used extensively to treat dysfunctional bleeding. Since the introduction of Essure tubal sterilization, this permanent contraception method has been widely used. Both endometrial ablation and Essure sterilization are procedures reported to have only a few complications. We describe a serious infectious complication shortly after an endometrial ablation in a patient with Essure microinserts in situ. To our knowledge, this complication has not been reported before in patients with Essure microinserts in situ. We suggest administering prophylactic antibiotics before endometrial ablation in women with Essure microinserts in situ.

Hysteroscopic myomectomy

Hysteroscopic myomectomy is a minimally invasive technique that eliminates the need for a laparotomy and is associated with lower morbidity than abdominal myomectomy. Its beneficial effects are reflected by the improvement in menstrual pattern, fertility rate, and overall patient satisfaction. It is usually performed as outpatient surgery but occasionally requires an overnight stay. Most patients return to full activity within 48 hours. To exploit the full potentials of this procedure, appropriate case selection and surgical expertise are essential. It should be considered as first-line conservative surgical therapy for the management of symptomatic intracavitary fibroids.

Intraoperative and early postoperative complications of operative hysteroscopy

With preoperative evaluation, meticulous technique, and vigilance for impending problems, intraoperative and early postoperative complications of operative hysteroscopy are largely preventable. Fluid overload is the most common serious complication. The hysteroscopist must understand the significant differences between hypotonic, electrolyte-free distention media and isotonic, electrolyte-containing media and their respective sequelae. As new operative tools become available, hypotonic and electrolyte-free distention media may become obsolete. The physiology and management of air embolism, the most grave intraoperative complication, are essential to the knowledge base of any active hysteroscopist. Mechanical accidents, anesthetic complications, laser and electrical injury, and infections can be reduced by knowledge and preparation. Technologic advances, ongoing research, and postgraduate training in hysteroscopic technique continue to expand the safe and beneficial applications of hysteroscopy into the next century.

Emergency endometrial ablation for life-threatening uterine bleeding as a result of a coagulopathy

The clinician has few medical and surgical options for managing life-threatening uterine hemorrhage. Hormone therapy often fails to arrest the bleeding. Hysterectomy under these emergency circumstances is also not optimal. Emergency endometrial ablation was successful in stopping exsanguinating uterine hemorrhage in three women and may be an important alternative in management of this disorder.

Endometrial cryoablation, a minimally invasive procedure for abnormal uterine bleeding

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of endometrial cyroablation for abnormal uterine bleeding.

DESIGN

Prospective study with 22 months follow-up (Canadian Task Force classification II-2).

SETTING

University Medical Center.

PATIENTS

Fifteen consecutive patients treated for metrorrhagia or menorrhagia refractory to medical or surgical therapy, and who were either not operative candidates or did not desire hysterectomy.

INTERVENTION

Cyroablation of the endometrium.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Fifteen patients underwent 16 procedures for dysfunctional uterine bleeding. Uterine sounding depth was 6 to 15 cm. One patient had spinal anesthesia, seven had general anesthesia, and seven had intravenous conscious sedation with a cervical block. Eight patients underwent cryosurgery while fully anticoagulated. Posttreatment endometrial biopsies were performed on three patients and showed only granulation tissue. Life table calculations give amenorrhea rates of 75.5% at 6 months and 50.3% at 22 months. One woman underwent a repeat procedure, resulting in hypomenorrhea at 7-month follow-up.

CONCLUSION

This pilot study suggests that endometrial cryoablation may be performed simply and effectively. Future studies should be designed to optimize the technical aspects of the procedure, determine its relative efficacy, and investigate the indications.

Complications of hysteroscopy-their cause, prevention, and correction

Complications of hysteroscopy occur more frequently in operative than in diagnostic cases. Problems related to uterine distention are common, usually preventable, and potentially extremely serious. Perforation of the uterus may occur during hysteroscopy but do not always cause significant problems. In procedures of high risk for perforation the use of mechanical energy is safer than either laser or electrical energy. Laparoscopy and ultrasonography have some limited use in facilitating operative hysteroscopic procedures. Most complications occur during the hysteroscopic surgical procedure. However, some problems may not be apparent until the post operative period.