Endoscopy
Thermal Ablation
Thermal ablation is a procedure done primarily to treat problems
with uterine bleeding. This procedure is done in the Endoscopy
Unit at Saint Mary’s Health Care.
About Our Unit
The Endoscopy Unit provides highly individualized care utilizing
modern, high-tech equipment and extensively trained physicians,
nurses and assistants. Thermal ablations are done using a
process called conscious sedation. The procedure takes about
30–60 minutes, and you will need to stay for at least
one hour afterward for the sedation to begin to wear off.
Conscious sedation is medication delivered through an IV to
provide pain control and drowsiness without some of the risks
and side affects often associated with general anesthetics.
Parking Information and Directions
When you come to the hospital on the day of your procedure,
you may park in either the north or south visitor’s
parking lots in front of the hospital on Jefferson. Bring
your parking ticket with you—we will stamp it so you
will receive free parking. Come through the front door of
the hospital and continue through the lobby to the elevators.
Take the elevator to the sixth floor. Take a left turn when
you exit the elevator and you will enter the Endoscopy Unit.
Important Patient Information
Before Your Procedure
- An RN from the Endoscopy Unit will call you the day before
your procedure to verify the procedure time and answer any
questions you may have.
- Saint Mary’s Admitting Department will call you
several days prior to your scheduled procedure to verify
your insurance information. If you prefer, you may call
the Admitting Department at 685-6094.
- Do not eat or drink anything for six hours before the
scheduled time of your procedure.
- Please arrive at the hospital 45 minutes before your scheduled
procedure time.
- If you take prescription medication please ask your physician
which medication you should take the day of your procedure.
- After Your Procedure do not drive for 12 hours. Someone
will need to drive you home after your procedure.
- You may resume your normal activities the day after your
procedure.
For any questions, please call the Endoscopy Unit at 616-685-6531. |
