Excision VS Ablation – Are Scissors the better option?

There are two types of laparoscopic surgery involved with the removal of endometriosis: Ablation and Excision.

Ablation uses diathermy, a technique that involves vaporising or burning off the endometriotic tissue at the surface. Unfortunately, whilst ablation is less invasive and a cheaper option for surgery, ablation leads to more adhesions, and a higher recurrence of endo and potential complications in the future. The negatives far outweigh the positive.

In clinic we’ve witnessed females that have had multiple ablation surgery result in poor outcomes, inevitably requiring additional procedures. Clients often report pain worsening and intensifying. Statistically there is a 40-60% re-occurrence with ablation. It is extremely important to do your research when choosing a GYN and Surgeon and understand your surgical choices!

I want to highlight a quote from a GYN journal regarding endo, please read the words carefully! “The purpose of endometriosis surgery is to obtain good long-term outcomes regarding pain relief, preservation of anatomy, fertility, recurrence and not to compromise the function of the involved organs”.

Excision is described as the GOLD standard for surgically treating and removing endometriosis. Excision involves the removal of all diseased endometriosis lesions and scarring; it removes endo from the root! Surgeons utilizing excision report long -term relief in 75-85% of their patients, with most patients reporting a significant decrease in pain or it completely resolving!

I know in my case, I felt like a completely new woman. All my fatigue and bowel issues had resolved! With all surgeries, it’s important to remember that all women respond differently, some get years of relief and others have a small window with endo re-appearing or recurring within months. Please do your research, so you can be confident and informed in the decision you are making towards your endo health.

Our body is not separate to the mind and soul. To manage endometriosis it requires whole body medicine and a village.

Amanda is the founder of Angea and has over 12 years of experience working with women to support their health journey. In addition to being a registered doctor of Chinese medicine, Amanda is a yoga teacher and founder of Mindful Pregnancy Yoga Training. Amanda offers acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine and womb healing treatments at Angea.