Endometrial Ablation with the VestaBlate System in Mexico

The VestaBlate system will enable gynecologists to perform endometrial ablation in the office. It consists of a distensible balloon containing a surface array of electrodes, each with a temperature sensor. A computerized controller connects to an electrosurgical generator. The objective is to create tissue necrosis of adequate depth to destroy the functional endometrium without significant risk. The electrode balloon is inserted through the dilated cervix and inflated. Using 40 to 45 W, the electrode maintains a surface temperature of 70 to 75° C for 4 minutes. From January 1995 to November 1995 we performed endometrial ablation with local anesthesia and minimum sedation in 20 women, and assessed bleeding patterns 1 month before and 6 months after the procedure. Two patients (10%) failed the procedure, 4 (20%) had oligomenorrhea, and 14 (70%) had amenorrhea. Promising early results indicate that office-based endometrial ablation can be performed safely and effectively.