What are the different types of endometrial ablation using the resectoscope?
The resectoscope can be used in several ways. In a “roller-ball” endometrial ablation a ball-shaped electrode is used to deliver energy to the endometrium, not unlike a microwave. This destroys the endometrium. In another method called “endo-myometrial” resection, a loop electrode is used to shave off the endometrium and some of the underlying tissue. Often the roller-ball is used to coagualte the wall of the uterus after the endometrium is removed. There are a number of variations on these techniques that probably have little effect on outcome. For example, a barrel shaped electrode can be used to “vaporize” tissue, or one type of resectoscope uses a device to automatically remove tissue that is shaved off. Doesn’t a D&C do the same thing? A D&C is a blind procedure in which the lining of the uterus is scraped. This is similar to mowing a lawn with your eyes closed – large areas may be missed. In addition, a D&C only scrapes the surface, similar to mowing a lawn. Unless the “soil” is