title: Uterine Balloon Therapy : An Alternative Therapy for Menorrhagia.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Menorrhagia is a common problem in women of reproductive age. Its aetiology in the absence of organic pathology, hormonal or haematological disorders remains largely unknown. Traditional medical therapy may not be beneficial in the long run. Hysterectomy for this condition is an invasive over treatment. First generation endometrium ablation techniques aimed at destroying the endometrium, were associated with life threatening complications. The second generation endometrial ablation techniques like uterine thermal balloon therapy have reduced these problems.
  
  
  METHODS
  Fifty patients were selected for the procedure between 2002 and 2005. The patients qualified for the procedure if they had completed their family, had normal pelvic ultrasound findings, benign endometrial histology, normal PAP smear and clinically a normal size or bulky uterus.
  
  
  RESULTS
  50% patients were in the age group of 35-45 years. 28(56%) procedures were done under local anaesthesia and 22(44%) under general anaesthesia. The patients were followed up for a period of 3 to 29 months (median 16 months). Seven(14%) had amenorrhoea and 40(80%) had normal periods or hypomenorrhoea. Three(6%) patients continued to have menorrhagia and were considered failures. 94% patients were satisfied with the procedure and there were no complications in this series. Conclusions : Uterine balloon therapy is a simple, safe and effective method for the treatment of menorrhagia in selected patients.
authors.affiliation: Classified Specialist (Obstetrics & Gynaecology) and Endoscopic Surgeon, Army Hospital (R & R), Delhi Cantt.
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Kapur
authors.affiliation: Consultant (Obstetrics & Gynaecology), Army Hospital (R & R), Delhi Cantt.
authors.forename: G S
authors.initials: GS
authors.lastname: Joneja
authors.affiliation: Reader (Dept of Obstetrics & Gynaecology), Armed Forces Medical College, Pune - 411 040.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Biswas
keywords: Menorrhagia; Uterine balloon therapy