This lawsuit concerns an endometrial ablation to reduce a woman’s uterine lining, which resulted in damage to her urinary system. The patient’s gynecologist had done the operation in her office, and during her recovery from the procedure the patient developed a vesicogvaginal fistula, an abnormal tract from her bladder causing that caused urine to leak into her vaginal vault. Before the tract could be repaired, the woman had to be catheterized for three months, which she claimed had extensive mental and physical health ramifications. A gynecologist who frequently performed endometrial ablations was needed to assess the patient’s malpractice claim.
Question(s) For Expert Witness
1.How often do you perform endometrial ablation in your office?
2. What precautions are taken to avoid cervical tears or vesicovaginal fistulas?
Expert Witness Response E-005509
I don't perform ablations in the office. Tears are from traction on the cervix or inadequate grasping or poor tissue. The fistula tract could be from a thermal injury from the ablation or trauma from cervical tearing and or repair of the cervix. Handling the tissue carefully is the best precaution a practitioner can take.
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