Surgical Options Endometrial Ablation Surgery for Endometriosis
In surgical treatment of endometriosis, a physician removes endometrial implants and scar tissue by cutting away, cauterizing (burning), or vaporizing with a laser. The surgery can usually be done during laparoscopic inspection. Physicians today often use high-tech techniques such as surgical lasers and ultrasonic scalpels to increase accuracy and decrease trauma to nearby tissues. This leads to better post-operative healing and better results.
If endometriosis is severe or if the implants cannot be reached easily with the laparoscope, more extensive surgery – laparotomy – may be beneficial. Laparotomy requires a larger incision of about four to five inches.
Hormone therapy and/or surgery to remove endometrial implants may help to relieve symptoms temporarily and may make it possible to conceive. Some women with severe endometriosis may consider hysterectomy and removal of the ovaries.
