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Microwave endometrial ablation for an enlarged uterus

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Abstract

Introduction

An enlarged uterus of more than 12 cm in cavum length with a distorted cavity is a contra-indication for conventional ablative techniques. It is difficult to perform satisfactory endometrial ablation in a large uterus with submucosal myomas using straight instruments. A new curved microwave applicator 4 mm in diameter was developed for microwave endometrial ablation (MEA) for uteri with an enlarged distorted uterine cavity.

Method

For three patients of menorrhagia due to submucosal myomas with cavum lengths 13 to 15 cm, MEA was performed using the curved applicator.

Results

Menorrhagia was improved in each case. No complications were encountered.

Conclusion

A large number of hysterectomies could be avoided using the new curved microwave applicator.

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Acknowledgements

We thank AZWELL Inc. for their technical assistance. Funding for the development of a curved microwave applicator for MEA was granted in part by Osaka City University Hospital.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Osaka City University Graduate School of Medicine, 4-3, Asahimachi-1, 545-8585, Abeno-ku, Osaka, Japan

    Yasushi Kanaoka, Kouzo Hirai & Osamu Ishiko

Authors
  1. Yasushi Kanaoka
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  2. Kouzo Hirai
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  3. Osamu Ishiko
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Yasushi Kanaoka.

Additional information

Conflict of interest statement: the authors state that there are no conflicts of interest

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Kanaoka, Y., Hirai, K. & Ishiko, O. Microwave endometrial ablation for an enlarged uterus. Arch Gynecol Obstet 269, 30–32 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00404-003-0480-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00404-003-0480-2

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