What Is a Diagnostic Hysteroscopy?
A hysteroscopy is a frequently used minimally invasive diagnostic procedure that gives your doctor/gynaecologist a clear view of the inside of your womb (uterus).
In this procedure, a thin, light, telescope-like tube (hysteroscope) is inserted through your vagina into your womb (uterus) through the cervix that projects images of your womb onto a screen. The insides of the womb can be visualized with the camera. If there is any growth seen, it is removed either directly or with smaller instruments (curettes). These tissues will then be sent to the laboratory to check for any cancerous growth.
Gynecologist will suggest a diagnostic hysteroscopy to check the inside of your womb and take a tissue sample (biopsy) if you have
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Abnormal bleeding during periods.
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Heavy periods.
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Repeated abortions.
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Infertility.
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Bleeding after menopause.
It is useful to diagnose
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Uterine fibroids (non-cancerous growths of the fibrous).
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Uterine polyps (abnormal tissue growth inside the womb lining).
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Uterine adhesions (scar tissue formation in the womb).
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Endometrial cancer (cancer of the womb lining).
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Endometrial hyperplasia (thick llining of womb).
What happens during the procedure?
Diagnostic hysteroscopy may be done in a clinic under local or no anesthesia. However, if you have more complex issues, it may be done in an operating room under local, regional, or general anesthesia.
Before the procedure
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You will have to empty your bladder.
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You will be prepped and draped in a sterile manner.
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The vaginal area will be cleaned and shaved.
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An intravenous line may be put on your arm, and sedatives will be given if required.
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An intravenous line may be put on your arm, and sedatives will be given if required.
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You will be asked to lie on your back and keep your feet in stirrups.
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Gynecologist may dilate your cervix for an easier view.
During the procedure
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A hysteroscope will be inserted into your vagina toward the cervix into your uterus (womb).
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Saline fluid may be pumped through the hysteroscope to expand your womb for a better view.
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The gynecologist will view and check the womb linings through the hysteroscope and take photographs or videos.
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The gynecologist feels that it is required to take a tissue sample. They may pass a small instrument through the hysteroscope and take a tissue sample.
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If further, your gynecologist feels the need for a procedure such as a fibroid removal; a tool is inserted through the hysteroscope.
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For some complex issues, your gynecologist may insert a laparoscope through your belly to view the outside of your womb simultaneously.
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When the procedure is done, the hysteroscope is removed.
After the procedure
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Your recovery will vary based on the anesthesia used during the procedure.
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If your doctor uses general anesthesia or sedative, your blood pressure, pulse, and breathing will be monitored until they are stable and you are alert.
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Once you are stable, you will be discharged.
It is a generally safe procedure, and significant complications are very rare. Seek an appointment with our expert gynaecologist, Dr. Aneeta Talwar, Bangalore’s Best Gynaecologist in Bangalore.
