Women have the choice between a surgical abortion (a dilation & evacuation) and a medical abortion (pills).  The patient can decide which method they prefer. Some choose the D&E because it is reportedly less painful than the pill, others prefer to take the pill. It's up to the patient. As far as the name surgical abortion - well, that's a bit misleading. It's not major surgery, more like a longer and more uncomfortable pap... but you wouldn't understand that comparison would you, Joe?