More than 2.5 million women every year visit their gynecologist because of excessive uterine bleeding - also called menorrhagia. This common ailment can sap a woman's energy and her confidence. Fortunately, hydrothermal ablation (HTA) can provide long-term relief for women with excessive menstrual bleeding.

During HTA, the gynecologist inserts a thin tube into the vagina allowing heated saline solution to flow over the surface of the uterus, also called the endometrium. HTA takes about 30 minutes and can be done under local or general anesthesia. In women who participated in the FDA trials and provided follow up information after one year, 40 percent had complete elimination of their menstrual period and another 42 percent said their menstrual bleeding decreased to normal or lower levels.

Most women are on their feet and back to their normal schedules within 48 hours. The most common side effect is cramping, which can usually be relieved by taking NSAIDS (a common pain reliever you should ask your doctor about) for 24 hours before and after HTA.

On May 25, Jay Berman, M.D. performed the first post-FDA approval HTA in the state of Michigan at Berry Surgery Center. The FDA approved HTA on April 23, but long-term clinical trials conducted right here at Berry Surgery Center have allowed our physicians to perfect this technique, invented by Milton Goldrath, M.D., former Chief of obstetrics and gynecology at Sinai-Grace Hospital. HTA shortens or eliminates hospital stays, decreases recovery period and results in fewer postoperative complications than hysterectomy.

For more information on HTA or referral to a physician who can discuss HTA and your medical situation, call 1-888-DMC-2500.

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