Local Physicians Have New Weapon In
Their Fight Against Endometriosis

 See also our Discovery Health information on Endometriosis

Burke County - An advanced medical procedure is bringing new hope to local women suffering from endometriosis, a painful yet all too common gynecological disease striking more than five million American women.

   Blue Ridge HealthCare is now one of the first health systems in the country to offer treatment using the Helica Thermal Coagulator (HTC), an advanced surgical device used to treat endometriosis.  

   “The HTC expands our arsenal of surgical options,” said Howard Hall, MD, a board certified OB/GYN at Grace Hospital. “It’s another strong addition for the surgical management of endometriosis.”

   To identify endometriosis, physicians often use a tiny video camera that is inserted into the abdomen. If the disease is located, the HTC can vaporize endometriosis lesions using a plasma beam formed from helium gas and a very low voltage electrical charge. During treatment, the HTC can provide greater levels of control over tissue penetration. This allows it to be used to destroy endometriosis in all areas, including vital organs such as the bowel and bladder. This may not always be possible with typical laser treatments.

   “I personally find HTC to have a little better control than a conventional laser,” said Dr. Hall. “It allows us to treat endometriosis in areas we would otherwise feel unsafe treating with a conventional laser.”

   Endometriosis occurs when tissue that normally lines a woman’s uterus is present somewhere else in the body including the pelvic cavity, ovaries or fallopian tubes. Although it is one of the most common gynecological diseases, endometriosis often goes undiagnosed.

   While some women suffering from this disease have few if any symptoms, many may experience debilitating pelvic pain, heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding, fatigue, painful urination and even back pain, often in conjunction with the menstrual cycle.

   The disease’s actual incidence rate is unknown due to suspected underreporting but many believe at least 10 to 20 percent of women from ages 15-44 may be affected.

   One of the most serious problems women with endometriosis face is the threat of infertility. In fact, endometriosis is one of the leading causes of fertility problems in women. This makes choosing the right treatment option even more important.

   “Treatment methods are often based on a women’s desire to conceive,” said Dr. Hall. “Endometriosis can be a very frustrating condition since it affects women during the prime of their reproductive lives.”

   Successful treatment cannot only significantly reduce associated pain and discomfort but often restore reproductive function.

   “We try to use a variety of medical and surgical options that allow women to maintain fertility,” said Dr. Hall “We are often able to restore the pelvis to normal anatomical appearance and function.”

   Additional treatment options for endometriosis include using lasers to destroy endometriotic lesions, conventional surgery, hysterectomy, hormonal therapy and the use of pain killing medication.

The second largest employer in Burke County, Blue Ridge HealthCare serves a four-county area and includes Grace and Valdese hospitals, Blue Ridge Home HealthCare, Grace Heights and College Pines Health & Rehabilitation Centers, Grace Ridge Retirement Community, Phifer Wellness Center and a number of physician practices.