Endometriosis is a common gynecological condition where tissue similar to that lining the uterus grows outside of it. It can cause significant abdominal pain and impaired fertility. Laparoscopic excision techniques are the current standard for treatment. However, a technique called HybridAPC shows promise as a safer and faster method for treating peritoneal endometriosis.
What is HybridAPC?
HybridAPC is a technique for the non-contact thermal ablation of peritoneal endometriosis. It involves creating a needle-free elevated fluid cushion that protects the underlying thermosensitive structures during treatment. This allows for safer exposure and distance, potentially leading to improved peritoneal conditioning before treatment with argon plasma coagulation (APC).
How Does HybridAPC Compare to Sharp Excision?
In a randomized clinical trial, 39 patients with 132 superficial endometriotic lesions were treated with either HybridAPC or sharp excision in an initial laparoscopic procedure according to randomization. In a second-look laparoscopy, adhesion formation was rated macroscopically, and histologic samples were taken from previously treated areas for evaluation of the eradication rate.
The results showed that the eradication rate was not significantly different between HybridAPC treatment and sharp excision (65 vs. 81%). Adhesions formed in 5% of HybridAPC-treated lesions and in 10% after sharp excision. HybridAPC treatment was significantly faster than sharp excision (69 vs. 106 s). No intra- and postoperative complications were registered.