Carbon Dioxide-laser Versus Harmonic Scalpel in the Treatment of Pelvic Pain Due to Endometriosis

Carbon Dioxide-laser Versus Harmonic Scalpel in the Treatment of Pelvic Pain Due to Endometriosis

The purpose of this study is to compare laser CO2 ablation/excision of Endometriosis (AFS stages 1-3) with excision of endometriosis using the Ethicon Harmonic ACE device. Pain scores at 6 months was the primary outcome, but secondary outcomes assessed pain scores at 1, 3 and 5 years as well as psychological state and quality of life.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Endometriosis grade I-III by revised American Fertility Society Scoring
• Patients in whom laser treatment to the endometriosis is considered the treatment of choice.
• Patients having consented to participated in the trial
• Patient is 18 years old or greater
• Patients who have no contraindications to either of the treatment modalities proposed

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients who do not wish to participate/have not signed the informed consent form
• Pregnancy of breast feeding
• Patients who are unable or unwilling to discontinue hormonal treatment for 6 months
• Patients who have received additional treatment for their endometriosis within 6 months of surgery
• Patients with documented painful conditions of the gastrointestinal or urinary system