Endometriosis: To Excise or Ablate- A Systematic Review

Abstract

Objective: To review current studies to determine if there is a difference of pain reduction following laparoscopic excision compared to ablation of endometriosis. Methods: Studies gathered from PubMed, CINAHL databases, and JMIG were reviewed for comparisons and outcomes of surgical excision and ablation of endometriosis Results: A large reduction of pain with surgical excision was found, especially when related to deep infiltrating endometriosis. With the exception of one study, seven of eight sources conclude excision held superior outcomes to ablation. Conclusion: Surgical Excision was shown to be the most effective treatment option for reduction of pain associated with endometriosis. Excision of endometriosis should thus be the primary treatment of endometriosis. Keywords: Endometriosis; Excision; Ablation; Fulguration; Pain; Laparoscopy; Surgery