What is a hysteroscopy? Show Hysteroscopy is the visual examination of the canal of the cervix and interior of the uterus using a thin, lighted, flexible tube called a hysteroscope. The device is inserted through the vagina. Hysteroscopy may be used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. The hysteroscope allows for easy visual access to the interior of the cervix and uterus to assess the lining of these structures. Therapeutic maneuvers, such as taking a tissue sample (biopsy), removal of polyps or fibroid tumors, or preventing bleeding with cautery (destruction of tissue by electric current, freezing, heat, or chemicals) may be performed during a hysteroscopy procedure. Diagnostic hysteroscopy may be performed in a physician’s office or in an outpatient facility with local or no anesthesia required. More invasive therapeutic hysteroscopy procedures may be performed in the operating room under local, regional, or general anesthesia. Because the physician is able to see the interior of the cervix and uterus during the procedure, diagnostic hysteroscopy has become a more common procedure than dilation and curettage (D & C), which is performed without endoscopic visualization. Other related procedures that may be used to evaluate problems of the female pelvic organs include D & C, cervical biopsy, colposcopy, endometrial biopsy, laparoscopy, Pap test, and pelvic ultrasound. Please see these procedures for additional information. What are female pelvic organs? The organs and structures of the female pelvis are:
Reasons for the Procedure Hysteroscopy may be performed in women who have an abnormal Pap test, dysfunctional uterine bleeding, or postmenopausal bleeding. It may be used to help diagnose causes of infertility or repeated miscarriages. Hysteroscopy may also be used to evaluate uterine adhesions (Asherman’s syndrome), polyps, and fibroids, and to locate and remove displaced intrauterine devices (IUDs). Therapeutically, hysteroscopy may be used to help correct uterine problems. For example, small adhesions and fibroids may be removed through the hysteroscope, often eliminating the need for open abdominal surgery. Endometrial biopsy or ablation (removal of the endometrial lining) may be performed via hysteroscopy. There may be other reasons for your physician to recommend a hysteroscopy. Risks of the Procedure As with any surgical procedure, complications may occur. Some possible complications of hysteroscopy may include, but are not limited to, the following:
You may experience slight vaginal bleeding and cramps for a day or two after the procedure. There may be other risks depending upon your specific medical condition. Be sure to discuss any concerns with your physician prior to the procedure. Certain factors or conditions may interfere with a hysteroscopy. These factors include, but are not limited to, the following:
Before the Procedure
During the Procedure A hysteroscopy may be performed on an outpatient basis or as part of your stay in a hospital. Procedures may vary depending on your condition and your physician's practices. Generally, a hysteroscopy follows this process:
After the Procedure Your recovery process will vary depending upon the type of anesthesia that is given. If general anesthesia or a sedative was used, your blood pressure, pulse, and breathing will be monitored until they are stable and you are alert. When stable, you will be discharged to your home. Hysteroscopy is usually performed on an outpatient basis. Otherwise, there is generally no special type of care following a hysteroscopy. You may experience cramping and vaginal bleeding for a day or two after the procedure. You may experience flatulence (gas in the digestive tract) and pains resulting from the gas administered during the procedure for about 24 hours. You may feel pain in your upper abdomen and shoulder. Take a pain reliever for soreness as recommended by your physician. Aspirin or certain other pain medications may increase the chance of bleeding. Be sure to take only recommended medications. You may be instructed to avoid vaginal douching and sexual intercourse for two weeks after the procedure, or for an alternate period of time recommended by your physician. Other activities and normal diet may be resumed unless your physician advises you differently. Your physician may give you additional or alternate instructions after the procedure depending on your particular situation. Online Resources The content provided here is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your physician. Please consult your physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition. This page contains links to other Web sites with information about this procedure and related health conditions. We hope you find these sites helpful, but please remember we do not control or endorse the information presented on these Web sites, nor do these sites endorse the information contained here.
Which diagnostic test is the direct visual examination of the tissues of the cervix and vagina?Colposcopy is a procedure in which a lighted, magnifying instrument called a colposcope is used to examine the cervix, vagina, and vulva.
What is the instrument used for visual exam of the cervix vagina?A hysteroscopy is a procedure that allows a health care provider to look at the inside of a woman's cervix and uterus. It uses a thin tube called a hysteroscope, which is inserted through the vagina.
What is the direct visual exam of the interior of the uterus?Hysteroscopy is the technique of visualization of the cervical canal and uterine cavity by means of an instrument that includes a metallic sheath and a telescope receiving light through a fiberoptic bundle from an external illuminating source.
Which term describes the removal of a cone of tissue from the cervix?Cervical diagnostic excisional procedures (also known as conization or cone biopsy) refer to the excision of a cone-shaped portion of the cervix surrounding the endocervical canal and including the entire transformation zone.
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