A retrospective cohort study comparing microwave endometrial ablation with levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device in the management of heavy menstrual bleeding

Objective To compare microwave endometrial ablation (MEA(TM)) with a levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device (Mirena((R))) in the management of heavy menstrual bleeding. Design A retrospective cohort study. Sample Thirty-nine women were treated with MEA(TM) and 23 women with Mirena((R)), in the South East Regional Health Service of South Australia during 1998 to 2001; the mean duration of follow-up was 14.6 months. Main outcome measures Primary measures included acceptability of the treatment process, effectiveness of the treatment, and satisfaction with outcomes. Secondary measures included side effects, complications and quality of life (using the SF-36). Results Acceptability of the treatment process and satisfaction with outcomes was very high for both procedures. Each treatment led to a statistically significant reduction in menstrual bleeding (p < 0.0001) and dysmenorrhoea scores (p < 0.002). Conclusions There were no statistical differences between the two treatments for any of the primary or secondary outcome measures assessed. The treatments seem equally effective in the management of heavy menstrual loss.