Forty-four studies (n=3,754) were included in the review: 14 randomised controlled trials (RCTs) (n=1,528), 23 prospective non-randomised studies (n=1,609) and seven retrospective non-randomised studies (n=617). Follow-up ranged from six to 48 months; follow-up in most studies ranged from 12 to 24 months.
Success rates across the included studies ranged from 83% to 94%, with similar effectiveness as other medical or minimally-invasive methods. Significant decreases were found in menstrual blood loss, duration and pain. One study found that higher rates of amenorrhoea were achieved with bipolar frequency impedance-controlled endometrial ablation (NovaSure) compared to thermal balloon ablation. Patient satisfaction ranged from 57% to 94%.
Minor complications related to the use of thermal balloon endometrial ablation included cystitis, endometritis, haematometra. The rate of minor complications was found to be 4% in one study.