Endometrial ablation and hysteroscopic myomectomy by electrosurgical vaporization

Electrosurgical vaporization, first performed by urologists in prostate surgery, is useful during operative hysteroscopy for endometrial ablation and myomectomy. From June 1995 through May 1996, 9 surgeons performed 44 endometrial ablations and hysteroscopic myomectomies using the vaporization electrode. Our experience with this technique thus far has been very favorable. The procedure is less expensive than laser ablation and is easier to teach than wire loop resection. It is also less tedious than wire loop resection since myoma chips that often obstruct the operator's view are eliminated. Long-term efficacy of this technique remains to be proved.