Patient Response to Endometrial Ablation with the Nd:YAG Laser

Abstract

An exploratory study was conducted to gather data regarding patient expectations of, and response to, the use of the Nd: YAG laser for endometrial ablation. The data provided identification of typical occurrences experienced by patients. The study was conducted with 30 patients in four segments including preoperative interview, retrospective chart audit, and two postoperative follow-up questionnaires. Preoperatively, patients were assessed with regard to their understanding of the procedure, symptoms, and questions.

Intraoperatively, it was determined that the average anesthesia time was 52 min. The mean average amount of fluid absorbed by patients was 735 cc with a range of 100-2000 cc. The average length of stay in the recovery room was 91 min. All but one patient was discharged the same day. Ten patients responded to the 3-month survey. Nine patients (90%) stated they were satisfied with the results of the surgery. Six patients (60%) stated they were having no menstrual periods, and four indicated very light menstrual flow. Four patients reported some swelling of the face, hands, and feet. One patient reported difficulty breathing and was admitted to the hospital immediately postoperative with pulmonary edema. Twenty patients responded to the final survey. Four out of five patients (80%), responding at 6 months, reported no return of menstrual periods. Ten patients, responding at periods greater than 6 months, reported a return of monthly menstrual periods but all reported a decrease in menstrual flow. Sixteen patients (80%) indicated that they were satisfied or very satisfied with the results of the surgery.

In this study, patients undergoing endometrial ablation seemed to be satisfied with the procedure. Additional studies should be conducted to examine the long-term effects of the ablation procedure.