| 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 connected to a catheter into the uterus, distending the bladder by introducing a non-toxic fluid under pressure, cooling the fluid by means located internal to the bladder to a temperature below 32° F. for a period of about 4 to about 12 minutes and preferably about 6 minutes, thereby cauterizing substantially the entirety of the tissue lining, particularly the endometrium. |