Nd:Yag laser ablation (endoscopic, uterine)
Last reviewed 01/2018
The Nd:YAG laser has suitable penetration to destroy the tissue responsible for menorrhagia - the basalis endometrial layer of the uterine cavity. The procedure is carried out under general anaesthesia or local paracervical block with IV sedation.
The cavity is accessed via the hysteroscope. One channel is required for the laser-carrying fibres and another for the fibres transmitting a video image. There is also a route for the continous passage of distending saline into and out of the uterus.
The whole procedure takes around 25 minutes to complete and requires an overnight hospital admission. The patient may resume normal activity within 10 days.
Hypo- or amenorrhoea being reported as frequently as 99% of women treated.