Hysterectomy Alternative Found Effective in Control of Bleeding
From Times staff and wire reports
Endometrial ablation, a technique that removes much of the inner lining of the womb in women who suffer severe bleeding during menstruation, is an effective alternative to hysterectomy, according to British researchers. A team from the Royal Free Hospital in London reported in the July 18 New England Journal of Medicine that the technique was able to control excessive bleeding, known as menorrhagia, in about 80% of the women. Only 9% ultimately needed a hysterectomy.
Menorrhagia occurs when a woman loses at least three fluid ounces of blood during her period; the normal flow is about two ounces. The condition can be caused by a hormone imbalance, an infection in the pelvis, use of an intrauterine device or polyps.
