Adenomyosis Is a condition of the uterus. It occurs when the lining of the uterus (endometrium) begins to grow INTO the muscular lining of the uterus, instead of just staying on top of the muscle, as a separate layer. Adenomyosis is similar to Endometriosis, both are conditions in which the lining of the uterus grows where it shouldn't and both are progressive (will continue to grow). But unlike Endometriosis, Adenomyosis confines itself to the uterine wall. They still don't know what causes Adenomyosis, but they don't feel that Adenomyosis and Endometriosis are related. Adhesions Scar tissue that is formed by bleeding endometriosis lesions and surgery. This scar tissue can bind together internal organs and surfaces that should be separate. Bowel Resection A surgical procedure performed when a blockage of the intestines occurs. The procedure removes the portion of the bowel where the obstruction is located. Coagulation A method of destroying endometrial lesions by dehydrating the cells with a bipolar or thermal coagulator. Endometrial cells The cells that make up the internal lining of the uterus. These cells build up a thick lining cyclically which is then discarded through menstrual flow. Estrogen The female hormone responsible for ovulation. It's production is signaled by the pituitary gland in the brain. Estrogen Replacement Therapy Also referred to as Hormone Replacement therapy. The practice of medically administering estrogen after procedures such as hysterectomy or menopause-inducing drugs to reduce side effects and reduce medical risks such as osteoporosis. Excision A method of removing endometriosis by physically cutting it out of the body. Hysterectomy Surgical removal of the uterus. When the ovaries and the fallopian tubes are also removed, it is called hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oopherectomy. Laparoscopy A surgical procedure used as the primary means of diagnosing endometriosis; also used to treat endometriosis. A lighted tube is inserted into the belly button through which the surgeon can view the inside of the abdomen. Instruments can be inserted into other small incisions to remove or destroy endometriosis. Laser Ablation A method of destroying endometriosis utilizing a concentrated beam of light. Menopause The transition between the reproductive and postreproductive stages in an older women's life, or when a woman ceases to menstruate or ovulate. Ovulation The cyclical occurrence in a woman's reproductive years when an egg is released from the ovary and picked up by the fallopian tubes and guided into the uterus where it will either be discarded with the menstrual flow or fertilized. Presacral Neurectomy A surgical procedure in which nerves at the back of the uterus are severed in an attempt to eliminate or reduce pain associated with endometriosis. Progesterone A hormone that prepares the uterus for implantation and nourishment of a fertilized egg. Reproductive Endocronologist A Doctor specially trained to treat hormone-related diseases, such as endometriosis. These doctors are often first trained as gynecologists and then go on to gain several years more specialized instruction. Testosterone One of the major male hormones, often associated with traditionally male characteristics. Vaporization A method of destroying endometriosis by boiling of the cellular water with a laser or electrosurgical knife. |
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