Excision Surgery (for Endometriosis)

By RRM Academy Reviewed by Dr. Naomi Whittaker, MD, Board-Certified OBGYN, MIGS, NFPMC, FCI Updated May 7, 2026

The surgical removal of endometriotic tissue by cutting it out, as opposed to ablation (burning/destroying it superficially). Considered the preferred surgical approach in RRM for endometriosis. A 2022 cohort study of 232 patients showed that excision improved outcomes across all 63 symptom measures evaluated (ranging from 28 to 46% improvement), while ablation only marginally improved period pain (11.3%) and heavy periods (8.5%) and worsened status in 23 of 24 quality-of-life measures. A meta-analysis found significantly greater reduction in dysmenorrhea (MD=0.99), dyschezia, and chronic pelvic pain with excision compared to ablation at 12 months.²⁷²⁸

This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult an RRM clinician or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation.