The HTA procedure was one of the first EA procedures ever done. It involves circulating heated fluid directly throughout the uterine cavity. It is the most "forgiving" of the procedures, which often makes it the procedure of choice when the uterus is atypical in terms of shape and size, or when there are fibroids involved, and reaches the entire surface of the uterus, including the "horns" where the fallopian tubes attach. (The others don't.) It also requires greater skill from the dr. than the Novasure, and carries with it a slightly higher percentage of risk (because of the small possibility of the heated fluid escaping from the uterus and burning the cervix, vagina, and/or perineum).

The Novasure procedure is the latest and greatest type of EA, which involves inserting a metal mesh into the uterus, expanding it to the uterine walls, and then charging it with electricity to ablate the lining. The device that performs the procedure is automatic and pretty much "idiot-proof" in terms of its operation, but it has much tighter specifications that must be met in terms of the uterus' size and shape.

If you are a good candidate for either one, there is no appreciable difference in their success rates, and no difference in recovery time. You might ask your doctor if your specific circumstances make you a better candidate for one over the other.

Marti, 56
Thermal balloon EA plus hysteroscopy and D&C 11/17/05
Occasional stress-related spotting, but otherwise virtually bloodless.