Authors' objectives:

This study aims to assess the current evidence on impedance-controlled bipolar radiofrequency ablation for menorrhagia.

Authors' recommendations: 1.1 Current evidence on the safety and efficacy of impedance-controlled bipolar radiofrequency ablation for menorrhagia appears adequate to support the use of this procedure, provided that the normal arrangements are in place for consent, audit and clinical governance. 1.2 Information is lacking about the long-term results of the procedure. Clinicians are encouraged to collect data on rates of recurrence and late complications, and they should ensure that patients are aware of the uncertainty about long-term safety and efficacy. Use of the Institute's Information for the Public is recommended. 1.3 It is recommended that the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (formally the Medical Devices Agency) safety notices on endometrial ablation are followed (MDA [1998] SN 9812 Devices used for endometrial ablation achieved by thermal means, and MDA [1999] SN 1999(18) Devices used for endometrial ablation, available from http://www.medical-devices.gov.uk). 1.4 Clinicians undertaking this procedure should have had adequate training. The British Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy has agreed to produce standards for training.

Authors' methods: Overview

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.nice.org.uk/ipcat.aspx?c=80297

Year Published: 2004

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: England, United Kingdom

Organisation Name: National Institute for Clinical Excellence

Contact Address: MidCity Place, 71 High Holborn, London WC1V 6NA, UK. Tel: +44 020 7067 5800; Fax: +44 020 7067 5801

Contact Name: nice@nice.nhs.uk

Contact Email: nice@nice.nhs.uk

Copyright: National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE)