Description:
Endometrial cryotherapy (or cryoablation) involves using cold temperatures to freeze and destroy the lining of the uterus (called endometrium). The procedure can be performed under general, regional or local anaesthesia, although sometimes no anaesthesia is required.
A probe (also called cryoprobe) is inserted through the vagina and cervix into the uterus and is cooled by passing either liquid nitrogen or a compressed gas mixture through it. The tip of the probe is the site of freezing and is placed in the top part of the uterus. Activating the freeze cycle of the probe generates an ice ball in the uterus which destroys the target area of endometrial tissue. The freeze cycle is followed by a heat (thaw) cycle which allows the probe to be removed. Ultrasound is used to monitor the position of the probe and depth of freezing across the endometrium. Additional freeze/thaw cycles may be repeated if necessary.
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