Dr. Henry Garza, Obstetrics/Gynecology, OakBend Medical Center
Medical advances and a broader understanding of the human body have today resulted in a far less invasive approach to many traditional surgical treatments. In the field of obstetrics and gynecology, these findings are dramatically changing the outcome for women suffering from common female problems such as heavy bleeding during menstruation.
Traditionally, a hysterectomy was recommended to eliminate this type of problem despite its potentially invasive affect on the female body and delicate hormonal balance. And while new technology has refined the procedure, a less invasive approach that preserves the female anatomy is proving preferable in many cases.
Heavy periods, which are something many women between the ages of 30 and 50 will experience, are a common complaint that often launches the discussion of a hysterectomy. The reasons for a heavy period may vary, as should the treatment options. A review of the patient’s history and a physical exam, possibly including lab tests and a pelvic ultrasound or sonogram, will help determine which treatment option would be most appropriate.
Less invasive treatment may include hormone treatments, a hormone releasing intrauterine device (IUD), or endometrial ablation.
The endometrial ablation is an option for which many women are opting, because it is performed in the office and requires very little recovery time. Our results are indicating that 70 to 80 percent of the candidates for this procedure will be very satisfied with the outcome. Approximately 20-30 percent of these patients will no longer have a period.
The ablation is performed under a light or local anesthetic and takes only 30 to 60 minutes. A lighted instrument known as a hysteroscope is used for viewing and together with other instruments work to destroy, or ablate, the uterine lining, or endometrium. The procedure is very safe and yielding excellent results.
For additional safety, we also request that patients bring someone along to provide a ride home. And even though this is a minor office procedure, we do emphasize that follow-up is important – approximately two weeks following the procedure.
An additional benefit is that many insurance carriers require only an office co-pay for the procedure.
The procedure should not be considered as a form of contraception and we generally prefer that the patient is done with childbearing before we consider her a candidate.
A board certified physician of obstetrics and gynecology, Dr. Henry Garza III is a graduate of Baylor College of Medicine and has been in private practice for over 12 years. He is currently the Chairman of the OB-GYN department at OakBend Medical Center. Dr. Garza has a particular interest in minimally invasive Gynecology and office-based procedures. He lives in Fort Bend County with his wife and sons.
