What Is Microwave Endometrial Ablation?
Microwave endometrial ablation, one of several types of endometrial ablation, breaks down the endometrial tissue that forms the uterus lining. Doctors use the procedure to control severe menstrual bleeding. The procedure serves as a milder alternative to a hysterectomy. Typical microwave endometrial ablation patients are women approaching menopause who experience abnormally heavy menstrual bleeding. The treatment is minimally invasive and lasts only minutes. A doctor inserts the ablative instrument into the uterus through the vagina. The instrument then emits microwaves to melt away the uterine lining. As the uterus heals, scar tissue from the lining removal prevents or minimizes future bleeding. Usually, microwave endometrial ablation is relatively painless. Overall recovery can take several days to a couple of weeks depending on the patient’s health and age. Though endometrial ablation can be safer than a hysterectomy, risks may include pulmonary embolism resulting from arterial bloc
