Radio Frequency Ablation of the Uterus
Radio frequency ablation (sometimes shorthened
as "rf ablation" or RFA) is more precisely known as the impedance-controlled
bipolar radiofrequency ablation. It destroys endometrium,
the inner lining of the uterus in order to stop heavy menstrual
bleeding (menorrhagia)
and introduce the state of no bleeding at all (amenorrhea).
How Does Radio Frequency Ablation Work?
The scope of this method in medicine is much larger then pure gynecology.
The first high frequency generators were devoloped in the late 1800's
and were used to create spectacular lightning. Later, such machines
were used in cosmetics and dermatology. For surgical purposes, radio
frequency ablation is useful because the heat it induces coagulates
small vessels during an operation. The first such device was used
in 1928, and since then, its successors can be found in operating
theathers all over the world.
The
principle of operation is that the generator sends high frequency
power, which causes ions in the tissue to vibrate at high speeds.
The ions move back and forth and thus produce heat. When heat rises
above 45 degrees C (113 degrees F), protein is permanently damaged
and the cell membranes fuse. The tissue is killed and the whole
process lasts no more than 15 minutes.
Where Can It Be Used?
Radio frequency ablation can be used as a
kind of a minimally invasive surgery for:
.
liver tumors and cancerous tissues,
.
unresectable hepatic tumors,
.
various cases of breast, kidney, lung, adrenal and bone cancer,
.
atrial fibrillation,
.
cardiac ablation
and
many others.
Radio Frequency Ablation of the Uterus
For endometrial ablation, a sheath with bipolar
radiofrequency electrode is placed through the cervix. When the sheath
is pulled back, the electrode expands and conforms to the shape of
uterine cavity. The electrode then emits radio frequencies. In the
end of the procedure, the electrode is retracted back to the sheath
and removed from the uterus. There is no need to prepare endometrium
in advance for the procedure, which means there is no need to take
drugs that might have side-effects.
If
there are large fibroids in the uterus, they may interfere with
the placement of the device.
If
the uterus is irregular in shape, the procedure may not be a feasible
option.
The
patient must receive general or local anesthesia.
The
rate of success is comparable and practically identical to other
newer endometrial ablation techniques -- 80% and above success rate
after a year.
Possible Complications
Just like with any other type of ablation,
there may be certain problems, such as
.
pelvic pain,
.
endometritis,
.
urinary
tract infection,
.
nausea
and vomiting.
Normally,
this is an out-patient procedure and you should be able to go home
the same day if there are no complications. Be sure to discuss the
outcome of the procedure with your doctor and/or surgeon. Try to
access in advance what are the possibilites of complications in
your case.
What To Do Next?
For more information on endometrial ablation
in general (the general course of reconvalscense after the procedure,
symptoms, the outcome of endometrial ablation in general etc.),
please
visit our page on endometrial ablation.
Return from Radio
Frequency Ablation page to the home of www.How-To-Avoid-Hysterectomy.com.
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