Below you will find some common procedures performed at Reliant Medical Group’s OB-Gyn Department.

Birth Control

IUD Insertions

An IUD is a small, flexible T-shaped contraceptive device that is inserted into the uterus. IUDs are considered a safe and highly effective birth control method. Different types of IUDs are available, your doctor can advise you on the best one for your needs. IUD insertion is a relatively simple procedure that can be done in a visit to your doctor’s office.

Endometrial Ablation (EA)

Cryoblation

For pre-menopausal women who experience menorrhagia (heavy menstrual bleeding) an endometrial ablation treatment called Cryoablation is highly effective. The procedure uses a small probe cooled to sub-zero temperatures that is placed into the uterus under ultrasound guidance. The freezing temperature effectively removes the inner lining of the uterus. Cryoablation causes only minimal discomfort with a short recovery period. It typically results in a significant decrease in menstrual flow, and in some cases eliminates menstrual periods altogether. Cryoablation can be performed in your doctor’s office.

NovaSure®

A one-time endometrial ablation procedure, NovaSure is used to reduce or stop menstrual bleeding. It works by removing the lining of the uterus (endometrium) by using radiofrequency energy. A slender wand is inserted into the uterus and a triangular mesh device is expanded to fit the shape of your uterus. Precisely measured radio frequency energy is then delivered through the mesh for about 90 seconds. NovaSure is a minimally invasive procedure performed without any incisions and patients can usually return to regular activities within a day.

Essure

The Essure system is a permanent birth control procedure that utilizes soft, flexible inserts that are placed into your fallopian tubes by your doctor. During the three months following the procedure, your body and the inserts work together to form a natural barrier that prevents pregnancy. During this period, you must continue using another form of birth control (other than an IUD). After three months, a confirmation test is performed to verify the success of the procedure. The test uses a dye and special type of X-ray to ensure that the inserts are in place and that the fallopian tubes are completely blocked. Essure is an effective contraception procedure that does not utilize hormones, so your periods should continue more or less in their natural state.

Diagnostic

Cystoscopy

This common procedure uses a small scope, called a cystoscope, to examine the bladder. It is done either to look at bladder abnormalities or to help with surgery being performed on the inside of the urinary tract (transurethral surgery). A cystoscopy is commonly performed for the evaluation of blood in the urine as well as kidney stones, bladder or ureteral tumors, prostate surgery, and urethral strictures (narrowings of the urethra).

Hysteroscopy

A hysteroscopy is a procedure that allows your doctor to look at the lining of your uterus. Your doctor inserts a thin viewing tool called a hysteroscope which has a small light and camera attached, allowing your doctor to see the lining of the uterus (endometrium) on a video screen. A hysteroscopy is usually performed to find the cause of heavy bleeding or uterine bleeding that occurs after menopause. It also may be done to see if a problem in your uterus is preventing you from becoming pregnant. A hysteroscopy can also be used to remove growths in the uterus, such as fibroids or polyps.

Colposcopy

This is a simple procedure that looks closely at the vagina and cervix for signs of disease, usually when the result of a Pap test is abnormal. The procedure is quick and painless and performed in a gynecologist’s office. A bright light on the end of the colposcope lets the gynecologist clearly view the cervix or vagina for any abnormalities.

CMG (cystometrogram)

A cystometrogram is used to understand the functioning of the bladder by measuring a patient’s ability to store urine as well as urinate. During the procedure, a catheter is inserted into a patient’s bladder and fluid is then brought in to fill the bladder. Pressure measurements are made to determine the bladder’s ability to store, contract, and expel urine. The test is generally done when patients have problems with urinary retention and/or incontinence.

Endometrial Biopsy

An endometrial biopsy is a common office procedure that serves as a helpful tool in diagnosing various uterine abnormalities. During the biopsy, tissue is obtained through the use of an endometrial suction catheter that is inserted through the cervix into the uterine cavity. Endometrial biopsy is useful in the diagnosis of abnormal uterine bleeding, cancer screening, endometrial dating and infertility evaluation. It is also a safe and accepted method for the evaluation of abnormal or postmenopausal bleeding.

LEEP

The Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) is used to test and treat abnormal cell growth on the surface tissue of the cervix. A thin wire loop electrode is used to apply a painless electrical current that can quickly cut away the affected cervical tissue. Performed in an office setting, the technique also allows your physician to send excised tissue to the lab for further evaluation.