| abstract |
A method and apparatus for effecting necrosis of a tissue lining of a mammalian body cavity, particularly a uterine endometrium, by introducing an applicator comprising a distendable bladder (5) connected to a catheter (10) into the uterus, distending the bladder by introducing a nontoxic fluid (25) under pressure, heating the fluid by means (44) located internal to the bladder to a temperature of 190 °F to 215 °F and preferably 210 °F for period of four to twelve minutes and preferably six minutes and regulating said apparatus by means (30) located external to the uterus, thereby cauterizing substantially the entirety of the tissue lining, particularly the endometrium. An agitator (103) circulates the fluid within the distendable bladder to help keep the fluid at a uniform temperature. |