Medical preparation of the endometrium prior to resection: Decapeptyl SR (triptorelin) versus danazol versus placebo

Abstract

SummaryThis study aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of Decapeptyl SR in the preparation of the endometrium prior to resection. A double-blind, randomised controlled clinical trial of Decapeptyl SR versus danazol versus placebo was established at the Academic Unit, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Coombe Women's Hospital, Dublin 8, Ireland. 39 women with dysfunctional uterine haemorrhage underwent transcervical resection of the endometrium. The women were treated, for 6 weeks before and 2 weeks following endometrial resection, with Decapeptyl SR, danazol or placebo. Resection was performed at a setting of 80 W cutting/80 W coagulation. Gravity-fed glycine was used for irrigation, using a free-drainage system. Women were followed up post-operatively for 6 months. Both Decapeptyl SR and danazol produced proliferative change; Decapeptyl SR was superior in the suppression of oestrogen levels. The duration of menses and the amount of blood loss were significantly lower in the group pre-treated with Decapeptyl SR, when compared with the placebo group (p < 0.017; p < 0.017). There was no significant difference in time taken to perform the resection, or in fluid absorption between the different treatments. Preparation of the endometrium with Decapeptyl SR prior to resection significantly reduces menstrual duration and blood loss, when compared with placebo. Pre-treatment does not affect the duration of the procedure. All three methods of pre-treatment are equivalent in terms of safety assessments.