Microwave endometrial ablation versus endometrial resection: a randomized controlled trial.
OBJECTIVE
To compare menstrual status, satisfaction, and acceptability of microwave endometrial ablation with transcervical endometrial resection for the treatment of heavy menstrual bleeding.


METHODS
Women were randomized to either endometrial ablative method. Menstrual status, satisfaction, acceptability, and changes in health-related quality of life were obtained by a self-completed questionnaire. Case note review and personal communication identified further surgery rates at 2 years after each procedure.


RESULTS
Among the original 263 women who underwent endometrial ablation, 249 (95%) returned questionnaires at 2 years. Menstrual status in both groups was similar, although the amenorrhea rate was higher after microwave endometrial ablation. Seventy-nine percent of women were either completely or generally satisfied after microwave ablation compared with 67% after transcervical endometrial resection. Health-related quality-of-life scores remained higher than at recruitment for both treatments. Hysterectomy rates were similar at 2 years (11.6% after microwave endometrial ablation and 12.7% after transcervical endometrial resection), and no repeat endometrial ablative procedures were required.


CONCLUSIONS
Microwave endometrial ablation is an effective alternative to transcervical endometrial resection for dysfunctional uterine bleeding.
Bain
Christine
C
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Scotland, Aberdeen, UK. bainhouse@supanet.com
Cooper
Kevin G
KG
Parkin
David E
DE
D000328:Adult; D017115:Catheter Ablation / Q000379:methods*; D004717:Endometrium / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008872:Microwaves; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011788:Quality of Life; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014592:Uterine Hemorrhage / Q000601:surgery*