Levonorgestrel releasing intrauterine system (Mirena) versus endometrial ablation (Novasure) in women with heavy menstrual bleeding: a multicentre randomised controlled trial.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Heavy menstrual bleeding is an important health problem. Two frequently used therapies are the levonorgestrel intra-uterine system (LNG-IUS) and endometrial ablation. The LNG-IUS can be applied easily by the general practitioner, which saves costs, but has considerable failure rates. As an alternative, endometrial ablation is also very effective, but this treatment has to be performed by a gynaecologist. Due to lack of direct comparison of LNG-IUS with endometrial ablation, there is no evidence based preferred advice for the use of one of these treatment possibilities.

METHOD/DESIGN:

A multicenter randomised controlled trial, organised in a network infrastructure in the Netherlands in which general practitioners and gynaecologists collaborate.

DISCUSSON:

This study, considering both effectiveness and cost effectiveness of LNG-IUS versus endometrial ablation may well improve care for women with heavy menstrual bleeding.

TRIAL REGISTRATION:

Dutch trial register, number NTR2984.

• Authors: Malou C Herman, Marian J van den Brink, Peggy M Geomini, Hannah S van Meurs, Judith A Huirne, Heleen P Eising, Anne Timmermans, Johanna M A Pijnenborg, Ellen R Klinkert, Sjors F Coppus, Theodoor E Nieboer, Ruby Catshoek, Lucet F van der Voet, Hugo W F van Eijndhoven, Giuseppe C M Graziosi, Sebastiaan Veersema, Paul J van Kesteren, Josje Langenveld, Nicol A C Smeets, Huib A A M van Vliet, Jan Willem van der Steeg, Yvonne Lisman-van Leeuwen, Janny H Dekker, Ben W Mol, Marjolein Y Berger, Marlies Y Bongers
• Journal: BMC women's health (BMC Womens Health) Vol. 13 Pg. 32 (Aug 08 2013) ISSN: 1472-6874 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 23927387 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Multicenter Study, Randomized Controlled Trial, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Chemical References

• Contraceptive Agents, Female
• Levonorgestrel

Topics

• Adult
• Contraceptive Agents, Female (administration & dosage)
• Endometrial Ablation Techniques (methods)
• Female
• Humans
• Intrauterine Devices, Medicated (statistics & numerical data)
• Levonorgestrel (administration & dosage)
• Netherlands
• Treatment Outcome
• Women's Health
• Young Adult