MCH Purchases GYN Equipment For Treatment of DUB Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding (DUB) is a common condition that affects approximately one out of five healthy menstruating women. It occurs because of a hormonal imbalance, and is distinct from other types of excessive menstrual bleeding because it is unrelated to fibroids, infection or disease. DUB accounts for 20 percent of the 600,000 hysterectomies performed annually in the U.S. MCH offers women the option of avoiding a hysterectomy with a safe, effective method of treating DUB. GYNECARE THERMACHOICE Uterine Balloon Therapy: • • • • Is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure Treats the lining of the uterus with heat Utilizes a light anesthetic Lasts approximately 30 minutes Candidates for Balloon Therapy Women are eligible for Uterine Balloon Therapy if they: • Are unable to, or do not wish to take long-term hormone therapies. • Have competed childbearing but wish to retain their uterus. • • Do not have abnormal uterine conditions, such as hyperplasia and submucosal fibroids. Have not reached menopause Proven Outcomes More than 250,000 women have been treated utilizing Uterine Balloon Therapy and long-term data support the product’s safety and efficacy. • In most women, the treatment will reduce menstrual bleeding to a moderate or light, manageable flow. • Some women may experience spotting, while others may stop bleeding altogether. • A five-year follow-up study shows that 95 percent of women treated still reported normal bleeding or less without additional surgical intervention • Ninety-three percent remained satisfied with the treatment. • Overall, nearly 7 out of 10 patients avoid further surgical intervention to treat their DUB. Risks Rare but possible safety risks include blood loss, heat burn of internal organs, electrical burn, perforation or rupture of the wall of the uterus, and leakage of heated fluid from the balloon or tissue into the cervix. How Uterine Balloon Therapy Works Figure A • First, a soft, flexible balloon attached to a thin catheter is passed through the vagina and cervix, and then placed in the uterus. • No incision is required. Figure C Figure B • When treatment is complete, all • Fluid is inserted in the balloon the fluid is withdrawn from the so that it inflates to the size and balloon and the balloon is shape of the uterus. removed. Nothing remains in • The fluid is heated to 188 the uterus. The treated degrees for approximately 8 endometrium will slough off minutes while the lining of the over the next 7 to 10 days. uterus is treated. For more information, please call the MCH Outpatient Specialty Clinic at 426-1239.