Gynaecology / Endometrial Ablation

Bowel injury

Bowel injury as a result of endometrial ablation

Success story

Celia underwent microwave endometrial ablation (MEA) for treatment of heavy periods. She presented two days after the operation with peritonitis due to perforation of the small bowel. She was taken back to theatre for a laparoscopy followed by a laparotomy with a defunctioning loop ileostomy. She was readmitted to reverse the ileostomy 6 months later, and alleged that the MEA was performed negligently, causing deep damage of the small bowel. PMS Expert Report concluded that bowel perforation is an unfortunate but recognised complication of MEA. The case was not pursued any further.