Health Canada warns using morcellator may spread undetected cancer
You may have never heard of a surgical tool called a "power morcellator." But to many gynecologists, it is a very useful device. It's designed to make certain surgeries possible by using very small incisions -- rather than more invasive surgery.
But last year, Health Canada and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned of a possible risk: Morcellators could spread undetected cancer.
Last October we first aired this documentary "A Divisive Device." by freelance journalist Alison Motluk.
Since we aired that documentary there have been some developments.
The US Food and Drug Administration, the FDA, has issued a warning against the use of laparoscopic morcellators to treat uterine fibroids. The FDA suggests surgeons and doctors seek alternatives. The FDA has recommended that all morcellators come with special warnings attached to the packaging explaining the risk of spreading previously undetected cancer.
Health Canada has issued a safety information bulletin. Heath Canada says that while the morcellator can be useful in some procedures, doctors must be aware that undetected sarcoma could be present in uterine fibroids. Health Canada suggests alternative treatments and highlights the need to inform patients of the potential hazards of morcellation.
Do you have experience with this surgery? Email us your thoughts on Morcellation.
The Current's documentary editor is Joan Webber.
RELATED LINKS
♦ Cancer fear prompts FDA to warn of uterus procedure - Al Jazeera
♦ FBI Investigating Hysterectomy Device Found to Spread Cancer - WSJ